Ireland will clash with Bangladesh, hoping to secure direct qualification for the ODI World Cup later this year. If Ireland were to win all the matches in this series, they will pip South Africa to the final automatic qualification spot. Bangladesh have already sealed their place at the ODI World Cup, slated to be held in India in October-November.

The Irish have chosen a full-strength ODI squad, which is not a surprise considering how vital this is to their World Cup hopes. Andy Balbirnie will lead the side, which also includes Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker and Paul Stirling – all of whom were in form in Ireland’s recent concluded Test against Sri Lanka.

The bowling will be spearheaded by Josh Little, who has enhanced his reputation in the IPL representing Gujarat Titans. Curtis Campher, Craig Young and Mark Adair would also be hoping to be at their best against Bangladesh.

Bangladesh have also named a strong squad, with Tamim Iqbal as captain. Litton Das, Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan are also part of the squad. Thus, they will be a tough proposition to tackle, even away from home.

Bangladesh played a three-match ODI series against Ireland not too long away. That ended 2-1 in the Tigers’ favour and they would hope to produce a similar result and dent Ireland’s World Cup automatic qualification hopes.

The first game of the series is scheduled for May 9. The second ODI will take place on May 12, with the final match on May 14. All fixtures will be held at the County Ground in Chelmsford.

IRE v BAN ODI schedule: Full list of fixtures

(All match timings are in local time)

First ODI, May 9, Ireland v Bangladesh, County Ground, Chelmsford, 10:45am (9:45am GMT)

Second ODI, May 12, Ireland v Bangladesh, County Ground, Chelmsford, 10:45am (9:45am GMT)

Third ODI, May 14, Ireland v Bangladesh, County Ground, Chelmsford, 10:45am (9:45am GMT)