Ireland’s Test captain, Andy Balbirnie, has been dropped from the T20I squad for the upcoming series against South Africa in Abu Dhabi. The selectors aim to introduce a “new dynamic” at the top of the order as Balbirnie has struggled for form in the format this year. Despite being Ireland’s second-highest T20I run-scorer, he has averaged just 24.83 in his 12 innings this year, with a strike rate of 113.74.
In Balbirnie’s absence, Lorcan Tucker may open alongside Paul Stirling after impressing in recent domestic games. Andrew White, the national selector for Ireland, stated that they are considering implementing a new approach, as Andrew Balbirnie will not participate in the T20Is this time. The two T20Is against South Africa will offer important opportunities for us to improve our performance levels.”
Balbirnie remains central to Ireland’s ODI plans and has been named in the squad for the three-match ODI series that will follow the T20Is. White confirmed that Balbirnie would continue as an opener in the 50-over format alongside Stirling.
Josh Little, who is currently playing in the Caribbean Premier League for Trinbago Knight Riders, has not been included in either squad. Left-arm spinner Matthew Humphreys has been added, replacing Little and Balbirnie from June’s T20 World Cup squad.
Ireland had a disappointing T20 World Cup campaign, failing to progress beyond the group stage. They lost all three completed matches, including fixtures against India, Canada, and Pakistan.
Uncapped legspinner Gavin Hoey is being considered for his ODI debut, whereas allrounder Gareth Delany has been selected solely for the T20I squad. This series marks the start of a new cycle, with Ireland’s focus on building towards the 2026 and 2027 World Cups.
Ireland T20I squad vs South Africa:
Paul Stirling (captain), Ross Adair, Mark Adair, Gareth Delany, Curtis Campher, Fionn Hand, George Dockrell, Graham Hume, Matthew Humphreys, Harry Tector, Neil Rock, Ben White, Lorcan Tucker, Craig Young.
Ireland ODI squad vs South Africa:
Paul Stirling (captain), Andrew Balbirnie, Mark Adair, George Dockrell, Harry Tector, Curtis Campher, Lorcan Tucker, Gavin Hoey, Stephen Doheny, Graham Hume, Fionn Hand, Matthew Humphreys, Andy McBrine, Neil Rock, Craig Young.
Both T20Is & ODIs Serieswill be played in Abu Dhabi
Fixtures:
1st T20I – Sep 27 and
2nd T20I – Sep 29;
1st ODI – Oct 2
2nd ODI – Oct 4 and
3rd ODI – Oct 7
