New Delhi: T20 world champions India’s national cricket team is scheduled to tour Ireland for a T20I series in June, which will serve as a warm-up before the white-ball tour of England in July. The series was confirmed by announcing. Paul Sterling Stepping down as Ireland’s T20I captain marks the start of a transition phase for the hosts.Ireland sees this India series as an important step in building towards the T20 World Cup 2028.
According to Ireland director of high performance Graham West, the change of captaincy gives a new leader the opportunity to shape the team quickly. “With qualification for the T20 World Cup in 2028, Paul (Sterling’s) decision to step down as T20 captain gives the new captain an opportunity to start implementing his style and approach starting with the India series in June,” he said.India, who also face Afghanistan’s national cricket team before traveling to England, have regularly toured Ireland in recent years, drawing huge crowds near Dublin.
Sterling’s decision and future focus
Sterling, 35, stepped down after a disappointing T20 World Cup campaign where Ireland struggled, although he will continue as ODI captain. Reflecting on his time, he said, “It has been a great honor to lead Ireland in this format and I am incredibly proud to do so. Captaining your country is an honor that comes with a great responsibility, and I am extremely grateful for the trust and support I have received in this role.”He also clarified that he is not stepping back as a player, adding, “I still have a lot of ambition as a player and I think this decision will allow me to focus on being the best version of myself and making the strongest possible contribution on the field.”
