Ireland to Host South Africa in Abu Dhabi, Stage Historic Test in Belfast

Ireland's cricket landscape is set to witness a unique blend of home and away fixtures in 2024, as the Irish Cricket Board (ICB) navigates infrastructure challenges with innovative solutions.

In a bid to overcome the lack of a permanent home stadium and the high costs of temporary infrastructure, Ireland will host a "home" white-ball series against South Africa in Abu Dhabi later this year. This decision, described as "creative" by ICB chief executive Warren Deutrom, allows Ireland to fulfill its international commitments while addressing infrastructure constraints.

The South Africa series, initially scheduled for Ireland in July, will now comprise two ODIs and three T20Is in Abu Dhabi from late September. This marks the second consecutive away series against Ireland that South Africa will play on neutral ground, following the relocation of two T20Is to Bristol in England in 2022.

Despite the absence of a permanent home stadium, Ireland will host a historic men's Test match for the second time in their history in July. The Civil Service ground in Stormont, Belfast, will host a one-off Test against Zimbabwe from July 25-29. However, financial and logistical obstacles have forced the cancellation of the six white-ball games in that tour.

Ireland's home fixtures also include a highly anticipated series against England's women's team, marking England's first tour of Ireland in the professional era. The series will feature three T20Is and three ICC Women's Championship ODIs in August and September.

Deutrom acknowledged the challenges faced by Ireland in hosting international cricket, but emphasized the board's commitment to finding creative solutions. He stated, "We know we'll have to explore ways to creatively increase our capacity to host an ever-increasing schedule in the short term."

Despite the challenges, Irish cricket fans can look forward to a packed schedule in 2024, with over 40 days of senior international cricket to enjoy. The season promises a diverse array of fixtures, including the historic Belfast Test, the possibility of Irish sides participating in two T20 World Cups, and visits from some of the world's top teams.

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