Ireland’s Cricketing Summer: Action-Packed Fixtures & Exciting Tournaments Await

Ireland Set for a Spectacular Summer of Cricket with International and Domestic Thrills

DUBLIN – Cricket fans in Ireland are in for an electrifying summer as world-class action comes to Irish shores. The upcoming months will see the national men’s and women’s teams compete against top-tier international sides, while exciting domestic tournaments promise to elevate the sport’s profile in the country. With four touring international teams, Ireland’s cricket calendar is packed with high-stakes matches, ICC qualifiers, and the launch of the European T20 Premier League.

West Indies, Pakistan, and England Headline International Fixtures

The Ireland Men’s team will host the West Indies for a thrilling white-ball series in May and June, followed by a historic three-match T20I series against England in September. Meanwhile, the Ireland Women’s team will face Zimbabwe and Pakistan in July and August, making for a season filled with high-profile clashes.

Before the summer action begins, the Ireland Wolves squad will travel to the UAE for a multi-format tour against Sri Lanka A and Afghanistan A. This preparatory tour will provide valuable exposure to Ireland’s emerging talent.

Ireland Women Eye World Cup Qualification

A crucial highlight of the season will be Ireland Women’s participation in two ICC World Cup qualifiers. In April, they will compete in the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier in Pakistan, where they will face teams like West Indies, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. Later in August, the squad will head to the Netherlands for the ICC T20 World Cup Europe Qualifier.

For the women’s team, these tournaments present an opportunity to secure a spot in the 50-over Cricket World Cup for the first time since 2005. With a strong squad led by Gaby Lewis, Irish cricket fans will be hoping for a successful campaign.

Domestic Cricket Evolves with Major Upgrades

Beyond international fixtures, Cricket Ireland has announced several exciting changes to domestic competitions. The men’s Inter-Provincial T20 tournament will be revamped into four three-day festival events in June and July, providing a more dynamic format. Meanwhile, the Evoke Super Series will introduce three two-day T20 Festivals, ensuring competitive cricket at the domestic level.

A significant milestone for Irish cricket is the introduction of two-day red-ball cricket in the men’s Future Series. This move is expected to strengthen Ireland’s long-term red-ball game and develop players for Test cricket.

Additionally, the much-anticipated European T20 Premier League will launch in July, running until early August. The franchise-based tournament aims to bring high-quality T20 cricket to Ireland, offering fans a spectacle of big-hitting action and attracting international talent.

Infrastructure & Future Developments

Cricket Ireland has also secured governmental support for a new stadium in Dublin as part of preparations for the 2030 T20 World Cup, which Ireland is co-hosting. Alongside these infrastructural advancements, investments in grassroots facilities and club cricket will ensure the sport’s continued growth across the country.

Another significant development is the official recognition of the Connacht Cricket Union as part of Cricket Ireland’s broader expansion strategy. The move is expected to foster more competitive regional cricket and strengthen the sport’s footprint across all Irish provinces.

Financial Challenges & Adjustments

While the season looks promising, Cricket Ireland has made the tough decision to cancel a scheduled series against Afghanistan due to financial constraints. The organization is focused on balancing investments across various areas, ensuring long-term sustainability while maintaining a competitive international presence.

The Summer Cricket Schedule

April 2025: Ireland Women start their ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier campaign in Pakistan, while Ireland Wolves embark on their UAE tour against Afghanistan A and Sri Lanka A.

May 2025: Ireland Men host West Indies for a three-match ODI series at Clontarf.

June 2025: The West Indies T20I series takes place in Bready, setting the stage for fast-paced action.

July-August 2025: The European T20 Premier League debuts, while Ireland Women host Zimbabwe for a limited-overs series in Pembroke and Stormont. They will then take on Pakistan Women in another key series in August.

September 2025: England Men arrive in Ireland for a historic T20I series at Malahide, marking a first in Irish cricket history.

Fan Engagement & Ticket Sales

To make the most of this cricket-filled season, Cricket Ireland is launching a new Supporters Club, allowing fans to engage with the team and access exclusive content. Ticketing and hospitality packages will also go on sale soon, ensuring fans get the best experience while watching their favorite teams live.

A Landmark Year for Irish Cricket

Cricket Ireland’s Chief Executive, Warren Deutrom, summed up the excitement surrounding the upcoming season:

“This summer, Irish fans will witness some of the world’s best cricketers in action. With England and West Indies visiting for the men’s series and Zimbabwe and Pakistan competing against our women’s team, the season promises to be a turning point for cricket in Ireland.

“Beyond international fixtures, we’re making major strides in domestic cricket, launching a new franchise league, expanding the Inter-Provincial and Super Series, and introducing two-day red-ball cricket. Our strategic planning, infrastructure investments, and club funding will ensure Irish cricket continues its upward trajectory. We look forward to a truly transformative year.”