Irish eyes are smiling after Lord’s Test confirmation

The news that all Ireland fans and supporters of Associate cricket globally had been hoping for was confirmed today with the announcement from the ECB that Ireland will play a Test match against England at Lord’s in 2019.

The four-day Test will commence on 24 July, and preceding this fixture, the two sides will also meet in an ODI in Ireland on 3 May 2019.

"Coming soon after our competitive inaugural men's Test against Pakistan in May, the confirmation of this news is incredibly exciting for Irish players and fans alike, and the further demonstrates the growing status of Ireland as a front-line nation in the world game," said Warren Deutrom, Chief executive of Cricket Ireland.

After a 25,000 strong crowd turned out to see Ireland play an ODI against England last year, Deutrom expects more of the same when the teams meet for the Test match.

“To return to the world’s most famous cricket ground only two years later to play our first Test against England will be a truly remarkable occasion and a reward for the many people on and off the field that have driven Irish cricket forward over recent decades.

“When we set our sights on Test status it was games like this that we envisioned, and we have always believed that our passionate, sport-loving island can play its part in expanding cricket’s global reach.”

Deutrom also acknowledged how the ECB’s support has helped turn their dreams into reality. “Not only have they found the space in an incredibly busy international schedule in 2019, but this will be the first time that the England cricket team will play an official four-day Test. To this end, I would like to acknowledge the great support of ECB Chairman Colin Graves and CEO Tom Harrison in helping to make this happen.”