Ireland Cancel Home Series Against Afghanistan Due to Financial Struggles

In a significant decision, Cricket Ireland has officially canceled its home series against Afghanistan, citing financial constraints. The multi-format series, which was set to include a Test match, three ODIs, and three T20Is, has been shelved despite being a part of the Future Tours Program (FTP).

Cricket Ireland’s CEO, Warren Deutrom, clarified that the move was purely financial and had no political motivation. He emphasized that the board’s priority is to ensure a balanced investment across the sport’s development in Ireland.

Positive engagement with Cricket Ireland’s CEO Warren Deutrom & Head of Facilities Operations Richard Fahey who gave updates on the proposal for the National Cricket Centre at the Sport Ireland Campus & on the shared goal of hosting the 2030 T20 World Cup on an all-island basis pic.twitter.com/2h2wbS3B1B

— Charlie McConalogue (@McConalogue) March 7, 2025

This announcement comes as Ireland prepares for a packed home season. The men’s team will host West Indies for ODIs and T20Is in May and June, while England’s T20I squad is set for a historic first-ever series in Ireland in September. Additionally, Ireland Women will participate in the ICC 50-over World Cup Qualifiers in April, competing against Pakistan, West Indies, Bangladesh, Thailand, and Scotland.

Meanwhile, Ireland Wolves will travel to Abu Dhabi next month for a tour against Afghanistan A, including four-day and one-day matches, followed by a white-ball tri-series featuring Sri Lanka A. The men’s team will also feature in the European T20 Premier League alongside Scotland and the Netherlands in July.

Amidst the restructuring of their international calendar, Ireland continues working towards its long-term infrastructure goals. The Irish government recently approved the construction of a permanent international cricket stadium in Dublin, expected to be ready by 2028. This development is a key step in preparing for the 2030 T20 World Cup, which Ireland is set to co-host with England and Scotland.

                                               

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