Paul Stirling has been confirmed as captain of Ireland for the start of their One Day International series against Afghanistan after recovering from knee ligament damage sustained at the T20 World Cup in February. Stirling, who is 35, had missed recent T20 fixtures but is named to lead the side for the first three matches of the five-game series.
Squad changes and debut opportunities
The selection brings fresh faces into the ODI setup: Jai Moondra, Ben Calitz and Byron McDonough have been handed call-ups that could see them make their international 50-over debuts. The squad announced covers the first three games, which are scheduled to be played at Bready and Stormont.
- Paul Stirling returns from knee ligament damage incurred at the T20 World Cup.
- Three players — Moondra, Calitz and McDonough — are in line for ODI debuts.
- The squad is named for the opening three of a five-match series, to be staged at Bready and Stormont.
"I am very much looking forward to the series against Afghanistan. These are our first ODIs in 15 months and in the intervening period, many players have put their hand up for selection which is a great place to be," Ireland head coach Gary Wilson said.
Wilson added that the coaching group had difficult selection choices but expressed confidence in the group chosen. He emphasised an attacking mindset with the ball and a determined approach in the field, saying the selectors aimed to pick a squad that reflected how they want the team to play and a "never say die attitude" associated with successful Irish sides.
Named squad
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Captain | P Stirling |
| Batsmen & All-rounders | M Adair, A Balbirnie, B Calitz, C Campher, C Carmichael, H Tector, L Tucker, L McCarthy |
| Bowlers & All-rounders | G Dockrell, G Hoey, A McBrine, B McDonough |
| Wicketkeeper | — |
| Others | J Moondra |
The full squad as announced is: P Stirling (capt), M Adair, A Balbirnie, B Calitz, C Campher, C Carmichael, G Dockrell, G Hoey, A McBrine, L McCarthy, B McDonough, J Moondra, H Tector, L Tucker.
What this means locally
Although Stirling is a familiar figure on the international circuit, his return will be watched closely by supporters who value his experience at the top of the order and leadership on the field. The arrival of potential debutants offers selectors a chance to assess newcomers in competitive white-ball conditions ahead of future fixtures. For supporters planning to attend matches at Bready and Stormont, the opening fixtures will provide an early look at how the team intends to approach ODI cricket after a long period without 50-over internationals.
Further details on match dates, ticketing and squad updates are expected from Cricket Ireland in the coming days as the series approaches.
Report by Harry Bailey, Stirling Local Democracy Reporter
