Ireland gears up for an exciting series against Afghanistan in the UAE this late February, with squad announcements across Test, ODI, and T20I formats.
Andrew Balbirnie takes the helm of the Test squad, while Paul Stirling leads the white-ball teams. Notably, Matthew Foster secures his position in both the Test and ODI squads, injecting an extra layer of excitement into the lineup.
The Test squad receives further reinforcement with promising talents like Barry McCarthy, Theo van Woerkom, and Craig Young, potentially marking their debut appearances and infusing the team with fresh energy.
Andrew White, the selector for Ireland’s men’s team, exudes confidence in the squad, citing extensive preparation and a successful tour of Zimbabwe in December as foundational elements.
Following an intensive training camp in Spain, the team plans to arrive in the UAE five days prior to the series, aiming to acclimatize effectively and optimize their readiness for the challenge ahead.
Reflecting on the squad’s journey since their last encounter with Afghanistan in 2019, White underscores the significant transformation undergone by the team.
He highlights the enhanced experience and adaptability of the lineup, emphasizing their readiness to navigate the intricacies of multi-day cricket with finesse.
Fixture Details:
Only Test: Scheduled from February 28th to March 3rd in Abu Dhabi, with proceedings kicking off at 10 am.
1st ODI: Set for March 7th in Sharjah, beginning at 3:30 pm.
2nd ODI: Taking place on March 9th in Sharjah, with the match starting at 3:30 pm.
3rd ODI: Slated for March 12th in Sharjah, commencing at 3:30 pm.
1st T20I: Scheduled for March 15th in Sharjah, starting at 8 pm.
2nd T20I: Occurring on March 17th in Sharjah, with proceedings beginning at 8 pm.
3rd T20I: Held on March 18th in Sharjah, with play starting at 8 pm.
The squads for the series are as follows:
Test Squad:
Mark Adair, Andrew Balbirnie (c), Curtis Campher, George Dockrell, Matthew Foster, Graham Hume, Andy McBrine, Barry McCarthy, James McCollum, PJ Moor, Paul Stirling, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Theo van Woerkom, Craig Young
ODI Squad:
Mark Adair, Andrew Balbirnie, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Matthew Foster, Graham Hume, Andy McBrine, Barry McCarthy, Neil Rock, Paul Stirling (c), Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Theo van Woerkom, Craig Young
T20I Squad:
Mark Adair, Ross Adair, Andrew Balbirnie, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Graham Hume, Josh Little, Barry McCarthy, Neil Rock, Paul Stirling (c), Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Ben White, Craig Young
With the stage set and excitement mounting, Ireland’s cricket squads are primed for an enthralling series against Afghanistan, promising fans a captivating display of skill and determination on the field.
