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<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>Cricket Ireland</title> <atom:link href="https://cricketireland.ie/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://cricketireland.ie/</link> <description>The Home of Irish Cricket</description> <lastBuildDate>Thu, 23 Oct 2025 09:27:32 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <image> <url>https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/cricket-ireland-favicon.png</url> <title>Cricket Ireland</title> <link>https://cricketireland.ie/</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height></image> <item> <title>Start of a new era</title> <link>https://cricketireland.ie/news/start-of-a-new-era/</link> <comments>https://cricketireland.ie/news/start-of-a-new-era/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Cricket Ireland]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 23 Oct 2025 09:27:22 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Cricket Ireland]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Latest News]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://cricketireland.ie/?p=60998</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Sarah Keane named CEO of Cricket Ireland</p><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/start-of-a-new-era/">Start of a new era</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>DUBLIN – Cricket Ireland has today confirmed that Sarah Keane has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer designate and will take over the helm in March 2026.</strong></p> <p>This landmark decision not only ushers in a new era for Irish cricket but also marks a significant moment in global sport, as Sarah Keane becomes the first female CEO of an International Cricket Council (ICC) Full Member nation.</p> <p>Following an extensive and highly competitive recruitment process, the Board of Cricket Ireland unanimously ratified Keane’s appointment, recognising her unparalleled track record of transformative leadership and strategic vision across Irish and international sport.</p> <p>Keane brings an extraordinary wealth of experience to Cricket Ireland. She is currently one of the longest-serving and successful CEOs in Irish Sport, having led Swim Ireland since 2004. Under her 21-year tenure, Swim Ireland underwent a remarkable transformation, achieving its best-ever Olympic Games performance in Paris 2024, securing multiple World and European medals, launching a government-backed groundbreaking National Swimming Strategy with a significant focus on infrastructure, and consistently driving increased participation through innovative programmes.</p> <p>Her influence extends far beyond aquatics. As President of the Olympic Federation of Ireland (OFI) from 2017, Sarah was instrumental in reforming the Irish Olympic movement. She successfully navigated the organisation through a post-Rio 2016 crisis, revitalising the OFI, together with a great Board and staff team, to deliver Ireland’s best Olympic Summer Games in 2024. Under her leadership the organisation has developed a successful commercial programme, established a strong Athlete’s Commission and inspirational campaigns like ‘Dare to Believe’, together with the execution of a full rebrand of the OFI, and an unwavering commitment to the athlete voice and welfare together with a clear emphasis on the importance of the experience for Irish athletes and their families. </p> <div style="height:38px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="1024" height="631" src="https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Sarah-Keane-with-award-1024x631.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-61001" srcset="https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Sarah-Keane-with-award-1024x631.jpg 1024w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Sarah-Keane-with-award-300x185.jpg 300w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Sarah-Keane-with-award-768x473.jpg 768w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Sarah-Keane-with-award-1536x947.jpg 1536w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Sarah-Keane-with-award.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <div style="height:46px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p>Highly influential in Irish sport, Sarah’s extensive network and experience are further evidenced by her roles as a Board member of World Aquatics and European Aquatics, Chair of the European Aquatics DEI Commission, and a past member of several IOC/ANOC Commissions. In 2022 Sarah was appointed as a member of the European Olympic Committee Organising Committee for the European Games 2023 (the biggest multi-sport event to be held in Europe since the 2012 Olympic Games). She contributes to the National Sports Leadership Group and played a key role in the development and delivery of the Inaugural European Under-23 Swimming Championships, the first edition of which took place in Dublin.</p> <p>Beyond her sporting achievements, Keane is a qualified solicitor with outstanding credentials in corporate management and governance. She serves as a Non-Executive Director of the Central Bank of Ireland, having recently been re-appointed for a second five-year term. An accomplished athlete herself, Sarah is a former National Level Swimmer and international Water Polo player, bringing a deep understanding of high-performance sport from both administrative and participant perspectives.</p> <div style="height:43px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p>Speaking on her appointment, <strong>Sarah Keane</strong> said:</p> <p><em>“I am incredibly excited and deeply honoured to become the new CEO of Cricket Ireland and the first female CEO of an ICC Full Member nation. Cricket is a truly global sport, and Ireland now stands on the threshold of tremendous opportunity – from the Olympic opportunity with the inclusion of cricket in the 2028 Olympics, the accelerated development of the women’s game, and the potential of bringing different communities together, to Ireland hosting the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2030. </em></p> <p><em>“I’m particularly keen to explore further avenues for commercial growth to ensure sustainable investment, and I look forward to supporting the ambitious plans for the development of the National Cricket Centre on the National Sports Campus and the upgrades to vital cricket infrastructure at Malahide, Stormont and others. I am committed to working collaboratively and tirelessly with the Board, staff, players, and the entire cricketing community to deliver on those opportunities for Irish Cricket and all involved.“</em></p> <div style="height:45px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><strong>Brian MacNeice</strong>, Chair of Cricket Ireland, said:</p> <p><em>“I am thrilled that Sarah is coming on board as our new CEO. Sarah brings a wealth of experience and is one of the most respected leaders in sport nationally and internationally. Her track record speaks for itself. Cricket Ireland is getting a world-class sports administrator and more importantly an individual of the upmost integrity, character and high-performance mindset. Throughout her career she has been an inspirational trailblazer and I am very proud that she will become the first female CEO of a Full Member nation. </em></p> <p><em>“This is an exciting time for Irish Cricket and Sarah’s appointment will help galvanise and reinvigorate cricket in Ireland. I have been hugely impressed with her grasp of the cricketing landscape at home and on the international stage as well as her vision and passion for what lies ahead. I am confident we have a leader that will maximise our potential as a cricketing nation as we move into the next phase of our journey. I look forward to working with Sarah to ensure we do just that.”</em></p> <div style="height:31px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p>Sarah Keane will officially commence her role as CEO in March 2026, marking a pivotal moment for Cricket Ireland and the broader sporting landscape.</p><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/start-of-a-new-era/">Start of a new era</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://cricketireland.ie/news/start-of-a-new-era/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Community Climate Action Fund</title> <link>https://cricketireland.ie/news/community-climate-action-fund/</link> <comments>https://cricketireland.ie/news/community-climate-action-fund/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Cricket Ireland]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 20 Oct 2025 20:13:24 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Club]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Cricket Ireland]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Latest News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Club cricket]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://cricketireland.ie/?p=60988</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Funding opportunity for clubs is now open</p><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/community-climate-action-fund/">Community Climate Action Fund</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>The Community Climate Action Programme grant is open from 20 October to 22 December 2025.</strong></p> <p>The fund and application process is being <strong>managed by Local Authorities</strong> in the Republic of Ireland and is open to not-for-profit community organisations for implementing climate actions such as <strong>sports clubs,</strong> charities and community halls.</p> <p>This is a great opportunity for Cricket Clubs to apply for <strong>building insulation, replacement doors and windows, solar panels, recycling bins, heating systems, biodiversity projects</strong>, and other sustainability projects.</p> <p>Every project should aim to <strong>lower emissions</strong>, and you will be required to outline how this will be delivered as part of your application.</p> <p>Examples of such projects include, but are not exclusive to the list below:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Installation of solar panels</li> <li>Upgrading of lighting</li> <li>Insulation of buildings,</li> <li>Supporting a healthier lifestyle by developing bicycle infrastructure,</li> <li>Installation of water bottle refill stations,</li> <li>Provision of space for nature by installing ponds, planting trees and creating wildlife habitats and</li> <li>Reducing the risk of flooding by installing water harvesting systems and rainwater gardens.</li></ul> <p>There are three grant scales, <strong>small grants up to €20k</strong>, <strong>medium grants up to €50k </strong>and <strong>large grants up to €100k</strong>.</p> <p>If your Cricket Club is interested in making an application, contact the Community Climate Action Officer in your local authority and outline an expression of interest in the fund.</p> <p>The details of your local Community Climate Action Officer <a href="https://assets.gov.ie/static/documents/d81f7bba/CCAO_Local_Authority_Contacts_Sept.pdf">can be found here</a>.</p> <p></p><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/community-climate-action-fund/">Community Climate Action Fund</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://cricketireland.ie/news/community-climate-action-fund/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Gary Wilson: “It’s a really well-balanced group”</title> <link>https://cricketireland.ie/news/its-a-really-well-balanced-group/</link> <comments>https://cricketireland.ie/news/its-a-really-well-balanced-group/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dave Sihra]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 08 Oct 2025 13:18:27 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[International]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Latest News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ben Calitz]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Cade Carmichael]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Tim Tector]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Gary Wilson]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Stephen Doheny]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://cricketireland.ie/?p=60846</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Assistant Coach discusses Bangladesh tour planning and expectations</p><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/its-a-really-well-balanced-group/">Gary Wilson: “It’s a really well-balanced group”</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Ireland Men’s Assistant Head Coach, Gary Wilson, has been discussing planning around the two Ireland Men’s squads travelling to Bangladesh for two test matches and three T20Is next month.</strong></p> <p>The press conference was held on the day <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/test-and-t20-squads-named/">the two squads were announced</a>, with Wilson answering a range of questions, including:</p> <p><strong>Stephen Doheny’s selection in the Test squad:</strong></p> <p><em>“Stephen has improved a lot over the last 18 months and has been quietly going about his work behind the scenes. He was given certain things to work on throughout the year and we really feel Stephen has worked on those and improved. There’s that coupled with the three domestic hundreds he scored this year, if I’m not mistaken. Stephen has put his hand up and hopefully he will get his opportunity to show what he can do for Ireland</em>.”</p> <p><strong>The balance of the Test squad:</strong></p> <p><em>“It will be brilliant to see how those guys will fare. I think Cade Carmichael, in particular, is really suited to the longer form of the game, and I’m really looking forward to see how someone like Gavin Hoey goes in Asian conditions. You know, he really came into his own on that Wolves trip back in March and April. He captained the side and as the trip progressed, he really progressed as well.</em>“</p> <p><strong>Tim Tector’s selection in the T20I squad and how they see his role:</strong></p> <p>“<em>We definitely see Tim as a top-order batter. Whenever he came into the squad for the series against West Indies there were quite a few middle order players out so we had to go with a different middle order. We had no Gareth Delany or Curtis Campher at that time, and. Ben Callitz was unavailable as that was just after he had his appendix out. </em></p> <p>“<em>So, Stephen Doheny and Tim Tector had to cover for the middle order which really wasn’t ideal. Then, obviously Tim missed out on selection for the England T20I series, which was tough because I’ve seen how well he’s done, and I’ve seen how much he’s improved in the last 18 months. So there was never any doubt that Tim was always going to be next in line for the top of the order. The fact that we’ve now got 15 in the squad means we have got cover for quite a few eventualities. There’s cover for the top order, middle order cover, spin bowling cover and seam bowling cover. So it’s a really well-balanced group and I’m delighted to see Tim Tector back involved.</em>“</p> <p><strong>Cade Carmichael’s return after suffering from a concussion while fielding in the All Ireland Men’s T20 Final:</strong></p> <p><em>“Cade has fully recovered. He was back in the gym two weeks ago and having his first bat this week. He’s chomping at the bit and raring to go.”</em></p> <p><strong>How Ben Calitz went on T20I debut against England:</strong></p> <p>“<em>I think Ben can be pretty happy. He came in at a time where there where a few wickets had fallen. I thought he showed quite good composure. Ben then went to his options early which is something we spoke about. No doubt, he’ll take a lot from it as well. He’s already spoken about how he wants to attack the next three or four weeks before hopping on the plane. So, Ben can be relatively pleased with his first performance.</em>“</p> <p><strong>Preparation before they arrive in Bangladesh:</strong></p> <p>“<em>We have a really important seven days in the UAE before we get to Bangladesh. We saw how beneficial that was to us the last time before we went to Zimbabwe, and no doubt that will be equally as important this time around.</em>“</p> <div style="height:29px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><strong>SQUADS</strong></p> <p>Ireland Men – Test Squad</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Andrew Balbirnie (captain), Curtis Campher, Cade Carmichael, Stephen Doheny, Gavin Hoey, Graham Hume, Matthew Humphreys, Andy McBrine, Barry McCarthy, Liam McCarthy, Paul Stirling, Jordan Neil, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Craig Young</li></ul> <p>Ireland Men – T20I Squad</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Paul Stirling (captain), Mark Adair, Ross Adair, Ben Calitz, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Matthew Humphreys, Josh Little, Barry McCarthy, Harry Tector, Tim Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Ben White, Craig Young</li></ul> <div style="height:27px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><strong>FIXTURES</strong></p> <p>The tour fixtures are:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>11-15 November: Bangladesh Men v Ireland Men – 1<sup>st</sup> Test (Sylhet; 10am starts)</li> <li>19-23 November: Bangladesh Men v Ireland Men – 2<sup>nd</sup> Test (Dhaka; 10am starts)</li> <li>27 November: Bangladesh Men v Ireland Men – 1<sup>st</sup> T20I (Chattogram; 6pm start)</li> <li>29 November: Bangladesh Men v Ireland Men – 2<sup>nd</sup> T20I (Chattogram; 6pm start)</li> <li>2 December: Bangladesh Men v Ireland Men – 3<sup>rd</sup> T20I (Dhaka; 6pm start)</li></ul> <div style="height:41px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://cricketireland.ie/ireland-men-bangladesh-2025/"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="341" src="https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Copy-of-Copy-of-Green-and-Grey-Bold-World-Charity-Day-Email-Header-1024x341.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60903" srcset="https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Copy-of-Copy-of-Green-and-Grey-Bold-World-Charity-Day-Email-Header-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Copy-of-Copy-of-Green-and-Grey-Bold-World-Charity-Day-Email-Header-300x100.jpg 300w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Copy-of-Copy-of-Green-and-Grey-Bold-World-Charity-Day-Email-Header-768x256.jpg 768w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Copy-of-Copy-of-Green-and-Grey-Bold-World-Charity-Day-Email-Header-1536x512.jpg 1536w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Copy-of-Copy-of-Green-and-Grey-Bold-World-Charity-Day-Email-Header.jpg 1875w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/its-a-really-well-balanced-group/">Gary Wilson: “It’s a really well-balanced group”</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://cricketireland.ie/news/its-a-really-well-balanced-group/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Test and T20 squads named</title> <link>https://cricketireland.ie/news/test-and-t20-squads-named/</link> <comments>https://cricketireland.ie/news/test-and-t20-squads-named/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Cricket Ireland]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 07 Oct 2025 12:00:23 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[International]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Latest News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ireland Men]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://cricketireland.ie/?p=60741</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>New faces as Ireland Men's squads named for Bangladesh tour</p><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/test-and-t20-squads-named/">Test and T20 squads named</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>DUBLIN – Selectors have named two 15-player Ireland Men’s squads for their upcoming tour to Bangladesh in November – a tour that will feature two Test matches and three T20Is.</strong></p> <p>Ireland Men were last in Bangladesh in 2023 when they played the first-ever Test match between the two nations (<a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.espncricinfo.com%2Fseries%2Fireland-in-bangladesh-2022-23-1355710%2Fbangladesh-vs-ireland-only-test-1355723%2Ffull-scorecard&data=05%7C02%7CCraig.Easdown%40cricketireland.ie%7Cc985fd195ac44fe170ce08de0040b0d7%7C02f2f7c0cce84f4291742b419e758222%7C0%7C0%7C638948475046690869%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=jlVeXdSM1OzRo1aEZM19r%2BodpigQ%2BS%2FROLthHY7Y5iQ%3D&reserved=0" class="broken_link">Bangladesh won by 7 wickets</a>).</p> <p>Ireland Men have played 10 Test matches to date, winning their last three Tests in a row.</p> <div style="height:49px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><strong>SQUADS</strong></p> <p>Ireland Men – Test Squad</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Andrew Balbirnie (captain) (Pembroke / North West Warriors)</li> <li>Curtis Campher (Clontarf / Munster Reds)</li> <li>Cade Carmichael (Instonians / Northern Knights)</li> <li>Stephen Doheny (Merrion / Munster Reds)</li> <li>Gavin Hoey (Pembroke / Leinster Lightning)</li> <li>Graham Hume (Waringstown / North West Warriors)</li> <li>Matthew Humphreys (Lisburn / Northern Knights)</li> <li>Andy McBrine (Donemana / North West Warriors)</li> <li>Barry McCarthy (Pembroke / Leinster Lightning)</li> <li>Liam McCarthy (Railway Union / Munster Reds)</li> <li>Paul Stirling (Northern Knights)</li> <li>Jordan Neil (CSNI / Northern Knights)</li> <li>Harry Tector (Pembroke / Leinster Lightning)</li> <li>Lorcan Tucker (Pembroke / Leinster Lightning)</li> <li>Craig Young (North Down / North West Warriors)</li></ul> <p>Ireland Men – T20I Squad</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Paul Stirling (captain) (Northern Knights)</li> <li>Mark Adair (Lisburn / Northern Knights)</li> <li>Ross Adair (Lisburn / Northern Knights)</li> <li>Ben Calitz (Lisburn / Northern Knights)</li> <li>Curtis Campher (Clontarf / Munster Reds)</li> <li>Gareth Delany (Leinster / Munster Reds)</li> <li>George Dockrell (Phoenix / Leinster Lightning)</li> <li>Matthew Humphreys (Lisburn / Northern Knights)</li> <li>Josh Little (Pembroke / Leinster Lightning)</li> <li>Barry McCarthy (Pembroke / Leinster Lightning)</li> <li>Harry Tector (Pembroke /Leinster Lightning)</li> <li>Tim Tector (Pembroke / Leinster Lightning)</li> <li>Lorcan Tucker (Pembroke / Leinster Lightning)</li> <li>Ben White (Phoenix / Munster Reds)</li> <li>Craig Young (North Down / North West Warriors)</li></ul> <div style="height:44px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><strong>About the Test squad</strong></p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Andrew Balbirnie will captain the side – only seven players of this current Test squad were part of the 2023 squad, with four players receiving their debut call-ups to the Test squad. Those players are: Cade Carmichael, Liam McCarthy, Jordan Neill, Stephen Doheny. Gavin Hoey, another uncapped player in the Test squad, has been called-up to Test squads previously, but is yet to play the longest form of the game.</li></ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Cade Carmichael has returned to full health after his concussion injury playing for Instonians in the All-Ireland T20 Cup last month. Carmichael played a four-day, red-ball match for Ireland Wolves against Afghanistan A in the UAE earlier this year, scoring 124 in the first innings – he then made his ODI debut shortly after, scoring 16 and 48 against West Indies.</li></ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Mark Adair, while having recently returned to fitness after knee surgery, will only play in the white-ball part of the tour, so will miss the Tests.</li></ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Vice-captain Lorcan Tucker returns to the ground where he struck a maiden Test century – 108 v Bangladesh in Dhaka in 2023.</li></ul> <p><strong>About the T20I squad</strong></p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Paul Stirling will captain the side as Ireland takes a step closer in its preparations for the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India / Sri Lanka.</li></ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Tim Tector comes back into the T20I squad, while Ben Calitz retains his place after featuring in his debut for Ireland in the 3<sup>rd</sup> T20I of the recently completed England series at Malahide.</li></ul> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>11 of the 15 players named were on the T20I squad that toured Bangladesh back in 2023.</li></ul> <div style="height:47px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><strong>FIXTURES</strong></p> <p>The tour fixtures are:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>11-15 November: Bangladesh Men v Ireland Men – 1<sup>st</sup> Test (Sylhet; 10am starts)</li> <li>19-23 November: Bangladesh Men v Ireland Men – 2<sup>nd</sup> Test (Dhaka; 10am starts)</li> <li>27 November: Bangladesh Men v Ireland Men – 1<sup>st</sup> T20I (Chattogram; 6pm start)</li> <li>29 November: Bangladesh Men v Ireland Men – 2<sup>nd</sup> T20I (Chattogram; 6pm start)</li> <li>2 December: Bangladesh Men v Ireland Men – 3<sup>rd</sup> T20I (Dhaka; 6pm start)</li></ul> <p><em>* all times are local to the venue</em></p> <div style="height:58px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><strong>Andrew White</strong>, National Men’s Selector, said:</p> <p><em>“It is fantastic to have Test cricket on the horizon again – and with that we are excited to see Cade Carmichael come into the Test squad following his ODI debut against the West Indies earlier this year. Not only has he had a great season, but he has also demonstrated the qualities required to be an international cricketer in this format. Cade compiled an excellent century against Afghanistan A in a four-day match in the UAE earlier this year, and anyone watching his two ODI appearances against West Indies will have noticed his composure and his technical ability against quick bowling.</em></p> <p><em>“Stephen Doheny is another player who has had a good domestic season and demonstrated a number of technical changes that we hope will enable him to be successful going forward.</em></p> <p><em>“It is likely that we will need all of our seamers across the back-to-back Tests. Given the recent number of injuries we have been managing, and the volume of cricket in the coming months, we will need to proactively manage the group in what will undoubtedly be hot and humid conditions. This is only the second time we have played consecutive Tests as part of a tour – it’s a challenge I know the squad will relish as they adapt to Asian conditions.</em></p> <p><em>“In terms of the T20 squad, the likelihood is that spin will play a more prominent role – so Gareth Delany, Matthew Humphreys and Ben White are expected to provide options in this area. And with Mark Adair and Josh Little returning to the squad, Graham Hume makes way on this occasion.</em></p> <p><em>“On the batting front, the 15-player squad allows us to bring in Tim Tector while retaining Ben Calitz to give us middle-order depth.”</em></p> <div style="height:36px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://cricketireland.ie/ireland-men-bangladesh-2025/"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="341" src="https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Series-Guide-IreBan-1024x341.png" alt="" class="wp-image-60758" srcset="https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Series-Guide-IreBan-1024x341.png 1024w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Series-Guide-IreBan-300x100.png 300w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Series-Guide-IreBan-768x256.png 768w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Series-Guide-IreBan-1536x512.png 1536w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Series-Guide-IreBan.png 1875w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/test-and-t20-squads-named/">Test and T20 squads named</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://cricketireland.ie/news/test-and-t20-squads-named/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>23 years later…</title> <link>https://cricketireland.ie/news/23-years-later/</link> <comments>https://cricketireland.ie/news/23-years-later/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Cricket Ireland]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 25 Sep 2025 15:28:01 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[International]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Latest News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[umpires]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Umpiring]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://cricketireland.ie/?p=60556</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Ireland's Mark Hawthorne steps down from international umpiring</p><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/23-years-later/">23 years later…</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>DUBLIN – The 3rd Men’s T20 international against England was not just the end of a series, but also the end of an international career – long-term umpire Mark Hawthorne has decided to call it a day on his 23-year international umpiring journey.</strong></p> <p>Mark, 63, has been involved in international cricket since 2002 – featuring in over 300 international matches at all levels. He stood in his first official senior international in 2011 – an ODI between Ireland Men and Pakistan Men and went on to appointments at numerous ICC events.</p> <p>He has been involved in both Men’s home Test matches, acting as TV Umpire for the matches against Pakistan in 2018 and Zimbabwe in 2024. Mark was also the first Irish umpire to avail of an umpire international exchange programme in 2019, when he travelled to the Caribbean to officiate.</p> <div style="height:36px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="671" src="https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/3243866-1-1024x671.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60559" srcset="https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/3243866-1-1024x671.jpg 1024w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/3243866-1-300x196.jpg 300w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/3243866-1-768x503.jpg 768w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/3243866-1-1536x1006.jpg 1536w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/3243866-1-2048x1341.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <div style="height:39px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p>Umpiring has indeed taken Mark all over the world, but the special feeling to call time at a big match here in Ireland was not lost on the Belfast-native:</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p><em>As I approached the players and coaches for the customary handshakes at the end of the match, I did think to myself how fortunate I was to have umpired international cricket for 23 years. To end my ICC international career by umpiring Ireland v England was very special, and I am grateful to all those who made that possible.</em></p> <p><em>I am convinced it was the right time for me to retire, and I was actually very relaxed and comfortable about walking off the field for the final time as an ICC International umpire.</em></p></blockquote> <div style="height:33px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p>Mark reflected on how his umpiring journey began:</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p><em>At the level of cricket I played, we didn’t get official umpires, so we almost always had to umpire our own matches. If I wasn’t batting, I would usually have been umpiring.</em></p> <p><em>Then in 1995, the Northern Cricket Union sent out a letter to all the clubs asking for anyone interested in umpiring to attend a course. Our club committee thought it would be a good idea to have someone represent the club and I was asked to attend. The tutors taking the course were friendly, knowledgeable, and very supportive – I owe each of them so much for getting my umpiring career underway.</em></p> <p><em>By the time I was coming to an end to playing the game, umpiring seemed a natural transition to allow me to remain involved in a sport I enjoy – and I soon realised I could umpire at a higher level than I ever played.</em></p></blockquote> <div style="height:42px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p>Umpiring took Mark around the world, and he recalled some of his memorable highlights:</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p><em>I have to say that 3 September 2013 was a special day – I was umpiring Ireland v England in an ODI in front of 10,000 people at Malahide. Ireland scored 269-7 and England were in trouble at 48-4 when Eoin Morgan and Ravi Bopara took over. Both scored centuries and England won by 6 wickets. The day itself was positive and well organised – Ireland showed it could host an ODI in front of a large crowd.</em></p> <p><em>But, thinking more globally, two highlights stand out. At the 2018 Under-19 Men’s World Cup in New Zealand, I umpired the Plate Final between West Indies and Sri Lanka. The match went to the final over with Sri Lanka winning by three wickets with two balls to spare – a fantastic end to a memorable tournament.</em></p> <p><em>However, perhaps slightly more memorable was when I was umpiring India v Sri Lanka in Mumbai in a floodlit match in the 2013 Women’s World Cup. The entire experience in India was incredible – the passion and enthusiasm for cricket must be seen to be believed.</em></p></blockquote> <div style="height:46px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p>So, what’s next for Mark Hawthorne?</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p><em>I will continue my involvement with umpiring through tutoring, and in my role as Umpire Observations Manager for Cricket Ireland. I will no longer be an ICC International umpire but I will continue to umpire at different levels – and perhaps umpire fewer games than in recent years.</em></p> <p><em>There are always opportunities and other roles that come along. I’m relaxed about these possibilities. If something happens that would be great – but if doesn’t I still have plenty to keep me involved!</em></p></blockquote> <div style="height:32px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p>And what would Mark’s advice be to people considering umpiring:</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p><em>You won’t know if you will enjoy umpiring until you try it. Some people try umpiring and realise it is not for them – others try it and regret not starting years earlier because they enjoy it so much!</em></p> <p><em>There are great courses for new umpires – led by ICC-qualified tutors – that aim to encourage and support new umpires. I have never forgotten those tutors who inspired me when I attended the course for new umpires all those years ago.</em></p> <p><em>Umpires who want to progress are given every opportunity, but there is no pressure on anyone – you can umpire at a level you feel comfortable. There are clear pathways for umpires who want to progress, but that decision is always up to you.</em></p> <p><em>Umpiring is challenging – but it is also fun. You will meet colleagues with a passion and enthusiasm for cricket and as an umpire you get the best seat in the house. There is no written exam at the end – we just want people to give umpiring a go. So, give it a try – what have you got to lose?</em></p></blockquote> <div style="height:61px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><strong>Brian MacNeice</strong>, Chair of Cricket Ireland, spoke at a small presentation to Mark after Sunday’s match:</p> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"><p><em>Usually there would be a bigger spectacle for a figure in Irish cricket that has achieved as much as Mark, but typical of the man, he didn’t want a fuss made. Despite this, I am pleased to be able to recognise this occasion – the final international match that Mark Hawthorne will be involved in. And what a way to go out — a sold out crowd in Malahide against one of the biggest teams in the world.</em></p> <p><em>Mark has been involved in international cricket since 2002, but his involvement hasn’t just been standing in matches. Mark has for many years, contributed to the coaching and mentoring of umpires countrywide, giving generously of his time and talent. We are confident you will continue to play a vital role in this area and we recognise that your patience, positivity and many quiet words have helped develop many professional and enthusiastic umpires over the years.</em></p> <p><em>To use Mark’s own words, everyone standing here makes a significant number of sacrifices, missed birthdays and other family events to be involved in this sport – never a truer word was said.</em></p> <p><em>On behalf of the Irish cricket community, I would like to congratulate you on all your achievements and thank you for your dedication and sacrifices.</em></p></blockquote> <div style="height:49px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><a href="https://cricketireland.ie/get-involved/how-to/become-an-umpire/">Contact your local cricket association</a> who will give you details of the local umpire association in your area – and sign up for the course!</p><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/23-years-later/">23 years later…</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://cricketireland.ie/news/23-years-later/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>A tribute to Renno</title> <link>https://cricketireland.ie/news/a-tribute-to-renno/</link> <comments>https://cricketireland.ie/news/a-tribute-to-renno/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Cricket Ireland]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 24 Sep 2025 13:18:26 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Cricket Ireland]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Latest News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Umpiring]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://cricketireland.ie/?p=60523</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Andrew Leonard has contributed this personal tribute to a man we all miss</p><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/a-tribute-to-renno/">A tribute to Renno</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Ever since I can remember, even from a very young age, I always got a bit melancholic in September.</p> <p>The realisation that the long summer evenings had already been drawing in for a while, coupled with the change in seasons, always left me feeling blue. It pre-empted what was destined to be a long, cold, but more importantly, cricketless winter.</p> <p>Even though I don’t get the opportunity to play much cricket any more, that feeling of melancholy still hits me wherever I am, year after year, like clockwork. This time, however, when it hit me, it wasn’t cricket related but it was around the realisation that a friend of all of ours was no longer with us, and it was the first time a cricket season would end in Ireland without him being a part of it.</p> <p>It was Monday the 2nd of September 2024, and I was returning to Ireland for a very short 24 hour stopover. I landed late into Dublin Airport, and it was well after midnight by the time I was driving down the N11. On that drive, a significant feeling hit me, in fact it overwhelmed me.</p> <p>Nearly a year prior, on the 10th of October 2023, Irish cricket lost one of our greatest servants, Paul Andrew Reynolds, who died at the age of just 50 after a very lengthy and incredibly dignified battle with a prolonged illness. Just 55 days prior to his untimely passing, he was still standing as an umpire in what would turn out to be his last international match as Ireland played India in Malahide in front of a sold-out crowd.</p> <div style="height:47px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="646" src="https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2608410-1024x646.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60525" srcset="https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2608410-1024x646.jpg 1024w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2608410-300x189.jpg 300w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2608410-768x484.jpg 768w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2608410-1536x969.jpg 1536w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2608410-2048x1292.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"> </figcaption></figure> <div style="height:33px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p>Even though I knew just how ill Paul had been, not that you would ever hear him say a word of complaint of his illness, the news of his passing last year completely blind sided me. Only days prior he’d been messaging me about watching the coverage of the ICC T20 World Cup Qualifier for the American region that I was commentating on in Bermuda, he wanted to know what the island was like and how it was all going. Then, just eight days later, I had just arrived in Nepal for the Asia Qualifier when I received a message with the devastating news that crushed me completely.</p> <p>I didn’t know how to react, I’ve been very lucky to have been untouched by much grief in my life and Paul was one of my closest friends and confidants in Irish cricket. In reality, I don’t think that I had properly grieved his passing until that drive down the N11 last month.</p> <p>A wave of happy memories came over me, I smiled and cried my way down the road and I felt compelled to write something to explain my friendship with Paul, and maybe get across something of his impact on the sport within Ireland.</p> <p>Whenever you needed to know anything about basically anything in Leinster Cricket, you got in touch with Paul.</p> <p>Fixtures, Renno.<br>Umpires, Renno. <br>Playing Conditions, Renno. <br>Cup Draws, Renno. <br>Refixes, Renno.<br>Statistics, Renno.<br>Player Eligibility, Renno.<br>Player Transfers, Renno.<br>Award Winners, Renno.<br>Next Year’s Structures, Renno.<br><br>Basically anything related to Cricket in Ireland, check it with Renno.</p> <p>Officially he was the Secretary of the Leinster Cricket Union for 11 years, in reality he was a close to full-time volunteer that made every aspect of cricket in the province hum so sweetly. His work ethic and output were absolutely remarkable; for me, he was one of the best administrators I’ve ever seen operate at any level in cricket.</p> <div style="height:34px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="697" src="https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2572256-1024x697.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60526" srcset="https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2572256-1024x697.jpg 1024w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2572256-300x204.jpg 300w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2572256-768x523.jpg 768w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2572256-1536x1045.jpg 1536w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2572256-2048x1394.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"> </figcaption></figure> <div style="height:32px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p>There was nothing he couldn’t turn his hand to. And his love of the game at all levels was awe-inspiring. He would genuinely get as much kick out of a Leinster Division 14 game between Tyrrelstown 2nds and Civil Service 4ths as he would out of a Test Match. He also had an incredible ability to switch paces between umpiring Kagiso Rabada vs Paul Stirling on a Saturday in Malahide, to being hugely engaged in a CL Youth Development league match on a Sunday in Adamstown.</p> <p>I wanted to look up when we first met each other, I had a presumption that it would have been playing, but I didn’t have much of a memory of it. Of course, for a question this specific, I’d always just have asked Renno himself, and he’d have come back promptly with the accurate answer. I asked another legend of Leinster Cricket in Eddie Lewis, who said we actually never played against each other, but he umpired me a huge amount. I definitely remember that being where our friendship started. Like many other Irish umpires, he didn’t give me too many LBWs, unlike some others he was always willing to explain why, and he was usually right, too!</p> <p>His genuine joy for umpiring at whatever level was very apparent, and it is fair to say we were kindred spirits in our love and obsession for cricket.</p> <p>Paul embodied the very best of everything that is great about Irish cricket, in fact I find it hard to even comprehend that he was English originally! He became truly one of ours, a totally adopted Irishman. He moved to Ireland in 1995 from Gloucestershire, where his cricket career started at Chipping Sodbury CC just outside Bristol. When he landed in Dublin, he immediately became a key member of Leinster CC in Rathmines and played a key role with the gloves for the Rathmines in their senior sides from 1995 through to 2014 when he called time on his playing career finally. <br><br>He adored the social side and the camaraderie of cricket, and he used to turn out occasionally for the Leprechauns once his regular playing days for Leinster CC were over. We enjoyed a brilliant South-East tour together with a lot of laughter; some cricket and many a lap; lengthy tea-break or rain delay and then in-depth discussions of every tangent related to Irish and World Cricket.</p> <div style="height:34px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="728" src="https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2446650-1-1024x728.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-60527" srcset="https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2446650-1-1024x728.jpg 1024w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2446650-1-300x213.jpg 300w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2446650-1-768x546.jpg 768w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2446650-1-1536x1092.jpg 1536w, https://cricketireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2446650-1-2048x1455.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <div style="height:33px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p>I can’t think of many areas of our sport in Leinster Cricket Club, Cricket Leinster or Cricket Ireland that he didn’t have some impact on. He was overwhelmingly and contagiously positive and he never had a bad word to say about a single person in our community. He saw the best in everyone, a bastion of common sense, flawlessly fair and managed to always see every side in the sometimes quite political landscape of Irish cricket, whatever the topic.</p> <p>It was in the umpiring World, though, where Paul would start to have his most elite impact on the game. He was always one of the best and fairest umpires on the circuit in Leinster, and his promotion up to the international level was not before time. Granular knowledge of the laws, with a fine presence and control of the game coupled with a deep understanding of the sport from every angle, he had all of the attributes to take well to international cricket, and he did.</p> <p>He made his full One Day International umpiring debut when he was standing in the 2nd One Day International between Ireland and Afghanistan at Stormont in Belfast. I remember how excited he was about it and knew weeks in advance it would be his debut in a big international series and with the additional scrutiny that came with it. In a twist of fate, after the first ODI, I received a late call up asking could I come in and commentate for the final two games there. Elated, I of course accepted and immediately told Paul, who explained that we would be making our television debuts together! So, in the late August sunshine in Stormont, I was the one on call describing one of the first really big decisions in his career, as he correctly gave out Kevin O’Brien trapped LBW to Rashid Khan.</p> <p>I looked back to that day on our Whatsapps where we shared congratulations on messages, I think both equally as chuffed as each other, and Renno had time for a giggle as always.<br><br><em>“Thanks a million, what a day. The fact that it was so one sided made it easier. I’d rank Rashid Khan ahead of you, but only just!”</em></p> <p>Paul and I shared a lot of landmarks, every single year he’d have to remind me that we shared a birthday, as I always forgot. We both, like Graeme Hick as Paul would tell me, were born on May 23rd, but 11 years apart. He would message saying “Happy Birthday to Andrew John from Paul Andrew”. I’d always forget it was his birthday the same day and then belatedly wish him Happy Birthday in the coming days when I saw it online or somewhere.</p> <p>Paul had a profound impact on me as a man. I don’t feel I’d be anything like where I am without him – his belief in me, his encouragement of me, and his pride in my journey in the game from an aspiring to a full-time cricket commentator. I, too, was so proud of the progress he had been making as an umpire.<br><br>I think the biggest thing that will always stay with me about Paul is his pure, genuine and unbridled joy at all things relating to cricket. I didn’t have the good fortune to know him as a young man when he was growing up in his home club, playing with his dad Clive, and brothers Dave and Mark, or when he was coming through University in Aberystwyth, but I imagine he had the same impish smile throughout his whole cricketing life. His kindness and compassion shone through to everyone he ever met in Irish cricket.</p> <p>All told, it took me over a year since that drive down the N11 to gather these thoughts about Paul, maybe it’s part of the process of mourning someone who meant so much to you. I’m still not sure I’ve captured the profound impact he’s had on so many people, or conveyed how tragic his loss continues to be for his family, his wife Jen, sons Iestyn, Rhys and Ieuan.<br><br>Now, two years on, as Ireland hosts its first Men’s T20I series against England, how I wish Paul could be here in Malahide this week. I know for a fact that there would be no divided loyalties or bias from him, but at the same time, I know what joy it would have brought him if Ireland managed to beat England (again he’d remind us of course). He was taken from us far too soon, but I know he will be with us in spirit this week. And I know there’ll be more than a few there in the Irish cricket family thinking of him again, too.</p> <p>I think most of all, I just know I miss my friend.<br><br><strong>Paul Andrew Reynolds, 1973-2023</strong></p> <p>Words by Andrew Leonard.</p><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/a-tribute-to-renno/">A tribute to Renno</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://cricketireland.ie/news/a-tribute-to-renno/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Stepping back</title> <link>https://cricketireland.ie/news/stepping-back/</link> <comments>https://cricketireland.ie/news/stepping-back/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Cricket Ireland]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 23 Sep 2025 14:58:32 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[International]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Women's Cricket]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Latest News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Freya Sargent]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://cricketireland.ie/?p=60520</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Freya Sargent to take an indefinite break from international cricket.</p><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/stepping-back/">Stepping back</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>DUBLIN – Ireland Women’s spin bowler Freya Sargent has taken the decision to step away from international cricket for a time for personal reasons.</strong></p> <p>Sargent, 19, made her international debut in 2023 and has 16 ODI caps and 16 T20I caps, claiming 33 wickets across the formats. She also featured prominently at the first two ICC Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cups in 2023 and 2025.</p> <p>Sargent recently returned from injury and appeared for Ireland most recently at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup European Qualifier in August.</p> <div style="height:38px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><strong>Graeme West</strong>, Director of High Performance at Cricket Ireland, said:</p> <p><em>“Freya has been a valued member of the senior performance squad for the past three years, making a significant contribution both on and off the field. She has been an integral part of the team.</em></p> <p><em>“Cricket Ireland will continue to support Freya during this time, the Team Management Unit are all agreed this is the best option available to Freya. Player wellbeing is paramount to us and takes precedence over everything else.”</em></p> <p></p><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/stepping-back/">Stepping back</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://cricketireland.ie/news/stepping-back/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>England take series 2-0</title> <link>https://cricketireland.ie/news/england-take-series-2-0/</link> <comments>https://cricketireland.ie/news/england-take-series-2-0/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dave Sihra]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sun, 21 Sep 2025 17:38:23 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[International]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Latest News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ireland Men]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Gareth Delany]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ben Calitz]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Curtis Campher]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://cricketireland.ie/?p=60517</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Ireland defeated by six wickets</p><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/england-take-series-2-0/">England take series 2-0</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>DUBLIN – After winning Game One by four wickets and wash out in Game Two – England took the first-ever Men’s T20I series against Ireland (2-0) after a six wicket victory in the final match at Malahide.</strong></p> <p>Game Three of this historic T20I series began with England winning the toss for the second time this tour and opting to bowl first at a sunny but chilly Malahide. </p> <p>Opening batters Paul Stirling and Ross Adair started well as they had done in Game One, however a wicket each for Liam Dawson, Rehan Ahmed and Jamie Overton brought the away side into the contest.</p> <p>Earlier in the day there was a cap ceremony for Ben Calitz who made his T20I debut. The cap was presented to him in the team huddle by Lisburn teammate Mark Adair. </p> <p>Calitz got his first taste of international cricket, scoring 22 off 18 until he was dismissed by veteran spinner Adil Rashid.</p> <p>An explosive innings of 48 not out from 29 deliveries from Gareth Delany then helped guide Ireland to 154-8 from their 20 overs.</p> <p>Two separate spells of rain delayed the start of the England chase however they proved short enough that overs weren’t lost.</p> <p>Ireland needed an early wicket, and a remarkable one-handed diving catch from Curtis Campher off the bowling of Barry McCarthy delivered just that to send back Jos Buttler. </p> <p>Craig Young then removed England captain Jacob Bethel with the help of another smart catch, this time from Delany in the deep.</p> <p>Campher’s dismissal of the very dangerous Phil Salt gave further hope, but England’s progress to the target couldn’t be halted as Jordan Cox passed fifty. </p> <p>Ben White, who came into today’s team, managed to remove Cox for 55 but the visitors eventually chased down the total in the 18th over. </p> <div style="height:29px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><strong>MATCH SUMMARY</strong></p> <p><strong>Ireland Men v England Men, 3rd T20I, Malahide – 21 September 2025</strong></p> <p><strong>Ireland </strong>154-8 (20 overs; G Delany 48*, R Adair 33, H Tector 28; A Rashid 3-29)</p> <p><strong>England </strong>155-4 (17.1 overs; J Cox 55; C Young 1-21, B McCarthy 1-22, C Campher 1-24)</p> <p><em>England Men won by six wickets</em></p> <p>Full scorecard <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/matches/?tab=m_scorecard#m49a8d036-0c19-4a4a-90bb-2e179c12f475">here</a></p><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/england-take-series-2-0/">England take series 2-0</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://cricketireland.ie/news/england-take-series-2-0/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>The ETPL strengthens leadership</title> <link>https://cricketireland.ie/news/the-etpl-strengthens-leadership/</link> <comments>https://cricketireland.ie/news/the-etpl-strengthens-leadership/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Cricket Ireland]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 19 Sep 2025 09:13:36 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[ETPL]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Latest News]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://cricketireland.ie/?p=60514</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Brian MacNeice and Warren Deutrom in key roles, Oakvale named investment banker</p><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/the-etpl-strengthens-leadership/">The ETPL strengthens leadership</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>DUBLIN and LONDON: The European T20 Premier League (ETPL) today announced a series of leadership appointments that underline its ambition to become cricket’s next global powerhouse. </strong></p> <p>In a significant move, Brian MacNeice, Chair of Cricket Ireland, has been appointed Chair of the ETPL Board, while Warren Deutrom, former CEO of Cricket Ireland, joins the ETPL on a full-time basis as Director, ETPL and Chair of Rules X, the parent company of the ETPL.</p> <p>Widely respected as one of the most accomplished administrators in world cricket, Deutrom was instrumental in Ireland achieving ICC Full Member status and establishing itself as a growing force on the global stage. His appointment brings global credibility and vision to the ETPL’s leadership. </p> <p>Andrew May, CFO of Cricket Ireland, will continue as a Board Director and core member of the ETPL founding team. These appointments further strengthen the partnership between Cricket Ireland and the ETPL, underscoring the league’s commitment to strong governance and long-term ambitions. </p> <div style="height:28px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p> Speaking on his appointment, <strong>Brian MacNeice said: </strong></p> <p><em>“The European T20 Premier League marks an exciting new chapter for the game in Europe. It carries the potential not only to inspire a new generation of players and fans, but also to firmly establish Europe as a vibrant and credible cricketing destination. At Cricket Ireland, we are delighted to be a founding partner in this journey, and we look forward to working closely with the ETPL leadership team to deliver a league built on the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and governance.”</em></p> <div style="height:27px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><strong>Warren Deutrom on being appointed as Chair of Rules X, the parent company of the ETPL:</strong></p> <p><em>“I am delighted to be given this exciting opportunity to remain involved in European cricket, and to help bring this longstanding vision to reality. Strong indicators such as Italy’s recent qualification for next year’s men’s T20 World Cup, the positive impact of the Olympics for cricket’s recognition on the continent, and ICC’s digital data prove that European cricket is on a growth journey. We believe that the ETPL can play a vital role in galvanising the world’s 2<sup>nd</sup> biggest sport in the world’s 2<sup>nd</sup> biggest sports market by establishing a world-class professional T20 league that can attract top players, partners and, ultimately, fans. I can’t wait to work alongside such an exceptional team to make this vision a reality.” </em></p> <div style="height:37px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><strong>The ETPL was founded by Abhishek Bachchan</strong> (Bollywood superstar and sports entrepreneur), <strong>Priyanka Kaul</strong> (media and business strategist), <strong>Saurav Banerjee</strong> (media and investment leader) and <strong>Dhiraj Malhotra</strong> (former CEO of Delhi Capitals and ex-GM of the BCCI). Together, they have built the foundation for the <strong>ETPL to be developed as a truly world-class, professionally governed global league.</strong></p> <p>The league has already attracted significant attention across the cricketing and investment world. With Abhishek Bachchan’s celebrity and sports credentials, the strategic expertise of its co-founders, and the backing of leading advisors such as <strong>Oakvale Capital</strong> and <strong>KPMG India</strong>,<strong> the ETPL is emerging as one of the most sought-after new T20 properties worldwide.</strong></p> <div style="height:36px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><strong>About the ETPL</strong></p> <p>The European T20 Premier League (ETPL) is aiming to become Europe’s premier franchise T20 league. Backed by Rules X – in partnership with the official cricket boards of Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands – the ETPL is bringing together international stars, European cricket boards and world-class investors to create a premier cricketing experience. Launching in 2026, with its powerful blend of cricketing pedigree, governance excellence, celebrity ownership and global investment expertise, ETPL is poised to transform the landscape of cricket in Europe and beyond. </p> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/> <p></p><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/the-etpl-strengthens-leadership/">The ETPL strengthens leadership</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://cricketireland.ie/news/the-etpl-strengthens-leadership/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>“We will back ourselves”</title> <link>https://cricketireland.ie/news/interview-with-craig-young/</link> <comments>https://cricketireland.ie/news/interview-with-craig-young/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dave Sihra]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 18 Sep 2025 18:11:21 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[International]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Latest News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Craig Young]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ireland Men]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://cricketireland.ie/?p=60501</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Interview with Craig Young</p><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/interview-with-craig-young/">“We will back ourselves”</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>DUBLIN – Craig Young spoke earlier today from the team hotel – reflecting on his return from injury, his new found love of T20 cricket, his Ireland debut, and advice for his younger self. </strong></p> <p>On his return after injury earlier this year: </p> <p><em>“After missing the West Indies series due to injury – a series which was partly played in my home province – it has been a pretty frustrating summer, personally. I’ve been looking forward to getting back out on the park with the lads and it was great to do that yesterday in front of a good home support. There’s nothing better than getting out there and plying your trade against the best.</em></p> <p><em>“The recovery from injury was a long road that wasn’t all that straight forward. I did a Grade 3C on my right hamstring. I worked with both the team at Your Physio in Eglinton and our own Mark Rausa – all were nothing short of brilliant. They really helped push me on and give me confidence in my leg again.”</em></p> <div style="height:26px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p>Young is currently Ireland Men’s second-highest wicket-taker in T20Is and admits he has grown to love the format:</p> <p><em>“T20 cricket has possibly grown to be my favourite format. I love Test cricket – when it comes along there is a huge spike in workload to try and get the overs under the belt, but nothing apart from playing can get you used to a day in the field and bowling in spells. I wouldn’t say I particularly enjoyed T20 at the start of my career, but when Gary Wilson became captain he really supported me and gave me a good run – and, in particular, I felt he backed me and gave me confidence in that he wanted me and needed me in the team and I never really looked back after that.</em></p> <p><em>“With T20Is, for me it really comes down to trying to keep it simple and understanding ‘the nature of the beast’. Some days you can bowl well and get no wickets, and vice versa, but it’s just about trying to be consistent and embracing it all.”</em></p> <div style="height:25px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p>About the first match of the current series, he said:</p> <p><em>“I don’t think conditions played a massive part – the wicket was on the slower side, but we are familiar with that. There wasn’t much nip or swing for us, but hopefully there’s still a bit in the track for tomorrow to help particularly our seamers. We all know how good England are, but we will back ourselves. Our batters were brilliant yesterday, and hopefully they can come again and we as a bowling back them up and we can get out on the right side of a result.”</em></p> <div style="height:25px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p>About his own performance yesterday:</p> <p><em>“I’ll be honest, I didn’t look at the scoreboard when I came on to bowl – I just wanted to get started and into my work. We knew they would come out swinging at everything – and they did, and did it well. We had our plans, and I felt we stuck to them as best we could, but it was a challenge, that’s for sure.”</em></p> <div style="height:26px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p>About his role in the bowling unit:</p> <p><em>“I found that after big Boydy retired [Boyd Rankin] that I seemed to take on his overs. I didn’t mind that but it was strange not opening the bowling, but I don’t mind I’d do whatever phase of bowling if it means I get out there and take part. I like the challenge of trying to take wickets through the middle overs and they are key to slowing things down and ensuring they aren’t loading up for the death.</em></p> <p><em>“But under Stirlo’s captaincy you have to be ready to bowl any over at any time – and that in turn keeps all options open to him, and gives him the chance to keep changing things up and the batters guessing.”</em></p> <div style="height:27px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p>It’s been 11 years almost to the day when Young made his Ireland debut at Malahide:</p> <p><em>“A debut photo popped up on my Facebook at the start of the week, it’s hard to believe that’s so long ago. I can remember so much about that series. It’s great to still be so involved that long on and shows no matter how much I doubted it then that I was good enough and could forge a long career from cricket.</em></p> <p><em>“On that day itself I remember bowling three overs from the top end and it wasn’t the best of starts. Then Kev [O’Brien] – who was captain at the time – brought me back on at the other end and before I knew it I had three wickets. It felt effortless running in and felt as if I had the ball on a string. Something you can chase as a bowler all the time but it very seldom actually happens, I was just lucky it was my debut when it did.</em></p> <p><em>“I’m probably doing myself a disservice there as I believe if you work hard and make the sacrifices good things come back to you, and I can tell you now I worked hard for that opportunity.</em></p> <p><em>“Looking back now, the only advice I would give to my younger self would be to never doubt yourself and keep working hard. Cricket’s a funny game – so stay level-headed, one day you’ll be top of the world and it could be the very next game and she will pull you straight back down with a bang. But enjoy it, enjoy the lads, enjoy the tours. Gary [Wilson] told me at the very start of it all, when I was plagued with injuries and considered not taking a contract, that you will not find a better job in life than a professional cricketer and as most of the time. He was right.”</em></p> <div style="height:24px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p></p> <p><strong>FIXTURES</strong><strong></strong></p> <p>The upcoming matches are:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>17 September: Ireland Men v England Men – 1<sup>st</sup> T20I (<a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcricketireland.ie%2Fmatches%2F%3Ftab%3Dm_bbb%23m4f104126-febc-4c96-b668-2d07e88c309a&data=05%7C02%7Cdave.sihra%40cricketireland.ie%7C8b4c37fa66dd4b87c68b08ddf6d24ddc%7C02f2f7c0cce84f4291742b419e758222%7C0%7C0%7C638938105391161252%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=N8QyKDyjfLJu6VKrFla9ZzLy%2FI49Fb73V2gER%2BhumHk%3D&reserved=0">result</a>)</li> <li>19 September: Ireland Men v England Men – 2<sup>nd</sup> T20I (Malahide Cricket Ground; start 1.30pm)</li> <li>21 September: Ireland Men v England Men – 3<sup>rd</sup> T20I (Malahide Cricket Ground; start 1.30pm)</li></ul> <p><em>Tickets for Game Two and Game Three are officially sold out. </em></p> <div style="height:24px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><strong>THE SQUADS</strong></p> <p>Ireland Men</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Paul Stirling (captain) (Northern Knights)</li> <li>Ross Adair (Lisburn / Northern Knights)</li> <li>Ben Calitz (Lisburn / Northern Knights)</li> <li>Curtis Campher (Clontarf / Munster Reds)</li> <li>Gareth Delany (Leinster / Munster Reds)</li> <li>George Dockrell (Phoenix / Leinster Lightning)</li> <li>Graham Hume (Waringstown / North West Warriors)</li> <li>Matthew Humphreys (Lisburn / Northern Knights)</li> <li>Barry McCarthy (Pembroke / Leinster Lightning)</li> <li>Jordan Neil (CSNI / Northern Knights)</li> <li>Harry Tector (Pembroke / Leinster Lightning)</li> <li>Lorcan Tucker (Pembroke / Leinster Lightning)</li> <li>Ben White (Phoenix / Munster Reds)</li> <li>Craig Young (North Down / North West Warriors)</li></ul> <p>Head Coach: Heinrich Malan</p> <p>England Men</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Jacob Bethell (captain)</li> <li>Rehan Ahmed</li> <li>Sonny Baker</li> <li>Tom Banton</li> <li>Jos Buttler</li> <li>Liam Dawson</li> <li>Tom Hartley</li> <li>Will Jacks</li> <li>Saqib Mahmood</li> <li>Jamie Overton</li> <li>Adil Rashid</li> <li>Phil Salt</li> <li>Luke Wood</li> <li>Jordan Cox</li> <li>Sam Curran</li></ul> <div style="height:22px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div> <p><strong>WATCH, LISTEN, FOLLOW</strong></p> <p><strong>Watch</strong></p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Ireland / UK: TNT Sport</li> <li>India: Fancode</li> <li>Pakistan: Tapmad</li> <li>Caribbean: Rush</li> <li>Sub-Saharan Africa: SuperSport</li></ul> <p><strong>Listen</strong></p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Ireland / UK: BBC 5 Live Sports Extra (and online through BBC Sport website)</li></ul> <p><strong>Follow</strong></p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Scorecard: <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cricketireland.ie%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cdave.sihra%40cricketireland.ie%7C8b4c37fa66dd4b87c68b08ddf6d24ddc%7C02f2f7c0cce84f4291742b419e758222%7C0%7C0%7C638938105391203549%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ecam0v%2Bod9OyAdNPXXGzzojFE5OY9tAC0RKvondNAek%3D&reserved=0">www.cricketireland.ie</a></li> <li>Updates: Cricket Ireland social media channels</li></ul><p>The post <a href="https://cricketireland.ie/news/interview-with-craig-young/">“We will back ourselves”</a> appeared first on <a href="https://cricketireland.ie">Cricket Ireland</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://cricketireland.ie/news/interview-with-craig-young/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> </channel></rss> If you would like to create a banner that links to this page (i.e. this validation result), do the following:
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