Harry Tector's unbeaten 96 powered Ireland to a 24-run victory over Italy in Dubai, securing an unassailable 2-0 lead in their three-match T20 series. Chasing 191, Italy's Anthony Musca (69) and Wayne Madsen (61) built a 125-run partnership, but their chase fell short.

This warm-up series is crucial preparation for both teams ahead of the T20 World Cup in February. Ireland, now ranked, will face Sri Lanka, Australia, Oman, and Zimbabwe in Group B. First-time qualifiers Italy, ranked 14th, replace Bangladesh and will open their campaign against Scotland in Group C.

Tector, who also scored 41 in the series opener, came in early after Ross Adair's dismissal. His 96-run knock, just four runs shy of a century, anchored Ireland's total. With a spot in the World Cup confirmed, both sides will use Monday's final match to fine-tune their lineups before the global tournament.