Ireland are set to host India for a short T20I series in June, marking the beginning of a new leadership phase after Paul Stirling stepped down as captain in the format on Thursday, March 19.
The development comes months after discussions between the Board of Control for Cricket in India and Cricket Ireland regarding a limited-overs series ahead of India’s white-ball tour of England in July. The series has now been officially confirmed by Ireland’s director of high performance, Graham West, in a statement announcing Stirling’s decision.
“With qualification secured for the 2028 T20 World Cup, Paul’s decision allows a new captain to establish their approach, starting with the India series in June,” West said.
India’s schedule remains packed following the IPL 2026 season, with a one-off Test and a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan set to conclude on June 20. The team will then travel to England, where the first T20I is scheduled for July 1, leaving a narrow window for the Ireland series.
Stirling steps aside after tough T20 World Cup
Stirling’s decision follows a disappointing campaign at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, where Ireland exited in the group stage with just one win from four matches. Losses to Sri Lanka and Australia, along with a washed-out fixture against Zimbabwe, ended their hopes early.
Despite stepping down in T20Is, Stirling will continue as Ireland’s ODI captain, ensuring separate leadership across formats.
“While I’m stepping away from T20 captaincy, I remain fully committed to the team and will continue leading in ODIs. This decision will help me focus on performing at my best and contributing more on the field,” Stirling said.
“This feels like the right time for the team to move into a new chapter. I’ll fully support the next captain and continue working towards Ireland’s growth and success.”
New captain race begins
Ireland are now expected to name a new T20I skipper soon, with vice-captain Lorcan Tucker and top-order batter Harry Tector emerging as the leading contenders for the role ahead of the India series.
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