The dates and venue of Ireland’s first overseas Test match have been announced. They will take on Afghanistan at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Dehradun, northern India, from March 17-21, 2019.
That game will be preceded by a three-match T20I and ODI series, the itinerary of which were also confirmed. All the games on the tour will be played at the same venue, and Ireland batsman Andrew Balbirnie is relishing the challenge.
“The Afghanistan series is a major step forward for Irish cricket as the tour is our first major tour as a Full Member,” said Balbirnie. “It will no doubt be a test for the entire squad – taking on Afghanistan in subcontinental conditions will require a level of adjustment by both our batting and bowling units. As we saw here at home in the summer, Afghanistan is a quality side with some world-class players, and will be a great challenge in their ‘home’ conditions.”
As well as a packed schedule, there’s also a chance for a new wave of young players to establish themselves in the national side. “With the retirements this year of Ed Joyce, Niall O’Brien and John Anderson, we know that this is a year that will require the entire squad to step up,” said Balbirnie. “It will also present some of the younger guys with opportunities to stake their claim for national selection. It’s an exciting time to be involved in Irish cricket.”
Ireland in Afghanistan tour schedule
February 23, 1st T20I
February 24, 2nd T20I
February 26, 3rd T20I
March 2, 1st ODI
March 4, 2nd ODI
March 7, 3rd ODI
March 9, 4th ODI
March 12, 5th ODI
March 17-21, Only Test
