Cricket

Ireland's cricket team is undergoing a strategic shift in its T20I squad, with the selectors opting to drop Test captain Andy Balbirnie in favor of a "new dynamic" at the top of the order. Balbirnie, Ireland's second-highest T20I run-scorer, has struggled for form this year, averaging a modest 24.83 and striking at a rate of only 113.74.National selector Andrew White explained the decision, stating that the team is exploring new options in the T20I format. Lorcan Tucker, who opened the batting in Balbirnie's absence in Leinster Lightning's recent T20 match, is a potential candidate to replace him as Paul Stirling's opening partner.While Balbirnie will sit out the T20Is, he remains a key figure in the ODI squad and will continue to open the batting alongside Stirling in that format. Josh Little, who is currently playing in the Caribbean Premier League, is not included in either squad.The upcoming series against South Africa marks the start of a new cycle for Ireland's white-ball teams, with the 2026 and 2027 T20 and 50-over World Cups on the horizon. The selectors are looking to deepen the pool of international cricketers and provide opportunities for players like Gavin Hoey, an uncapped legspinner, to gain experience.Ireland will host South Africa's tour in Abu Dhabi due to infrastructure constraints, but they hope to overcome these challenges with the development of a new national stadium. South Africa has already announced its squads for the series, with many of their first-choice players rested.

Ireland's historic victory over Pakistan in their first T20I encounter in 15 years was a testament to the hosts' resilience and the brilliance of Andy Balbirnie. Balbirnie's masterful 77, coupled with Harry Tector's 36, laid the foundation for Ireland's successful chase of 183.The chase was far from straightforward, with Pakistan's bowlers putting up a spirited fight. However, cameos from George Dockrell and Curtis Campher proved crucial in guiding Ireland over the line. The final overs were a tense affair, with Ireland needing 40 runs from the last four overs.Pakistan's bowlers started the final overs well, but a recurring theme of conceding late boundaries kept Ireland in the hunt. Shadab Khan's missed chance to dismiss Balbirnie proved costly, as the Irish captain went on to score a match-winning knock.Naseem Shah's yorkers brought Pakistan back into the game, but Delany's crunching drive off a full toss kept Ireland's hopes alive. Shaheen Afridi's penultimate over was impressive, but Campher's audacious reverse ramp over the keeper left Abbas Afridi with a daunting task in the final over.Campher's composure under pressure was evident as he guided the first ball off the under-edge for four. He capitalized on a missed yorker to level the scores before sneaking a leg bye to seal a memorable victory for Ireland.This historic win marks a significant milestone for Irish cricket and will undoubtedly boost their confidence ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Ireland etched their name in cricketing history on Friday, securing their maiden Test victory against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi. This historic triumph marked Ireland's first Test win in their eighth outing in the traditional format.Captain Andy Balbirnie led the charge with an unbeaten 58, guiding Ireland to a six-wicket victory in the final session of the third day. Chasing a modest target of 111, Ireland overcame an early wobble to seal the historic win.Afghanistan resumed their second innings on 134-3 but were dismissed for 218. Skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi top-scored with 55, while debutant Rahmanullah Gurbaz contributed 46. Mark Adair emerged as the star performer with the ball, claiming eight wickets in the match, including three in the second innings. Craig Young and Barry McCarthy also chipped in with three wickets each.Ireland's chase got off to a shaky start as they lost three wickets for just 13 runs. However, Balbirnie stood firm, anchoring the innings with a composed half-century. Lorcan Tucker provided valuable support with an unbeaten 27, forming a crucial 72-run partnership with Balbirnie.The victory was a testament to Ireland's resilience and determination. Having played their first Test in 2018, they have now achieved a significant milestone in their cricketing journey. The two teams will now face off in three one-day internationals and three T20 games as part of their multi-format series.