Ireland will host the T20 World Cup winners India for a T20I series in June, and it will kick off what looks like an exciting home summer.

The update was confirmed by Ireland’s director of high-performance Graham West, who also shared that Paul Stirling has decided to step down as the T20I captain.

India tour of Ireland confirmed

India will be touring England later this year for a white ball series that includes five T20Is and three ODIs in July. The Ireland series will come just before that England tour and gives both teams some good game time before a big assignment.

Graham West said the India series is part of their plans for the upcoming summer.

“With qualification secured for the T20 World Cup in 2028, Paul’s (Stirling) decision to stand down as T20 captain provides the opportunity for the new captain to begin implementing their style and methodology, starting with the India series in June,” West said in a press release.

Paul Stirling steps down

India have toured Ireland three times in the past seven years (2018, 2022 and 2023) and there have been strong crowds at Malahide on the outskirts of Dublin.

“It has been a tremendous honor to lead Ireland in this format and something I have been incredibly proud to do. Captaining your country is a privilege that carries great responsibility, and I’m very grateful for the trust and support I have received during my time in the role,” Stirling said.

The 35-year-old Stirling led Ireland in 48 T20Is before stepping down, after a disappointing T20 World Cup held across India and Sri Lanka.

Ireland lost to Sri Lanka and Australia before beating Oman, while their final match against Zimbabwe was abandoned.

Ireland begin transition phase ahead of 2028 world cup

Stirling will continue to lead Ireland in ODIs and said he remains “fully committed” to contributing across formats.

“I still have a huge amount of ambition as a player and feel this decision will allow me to fully focus on being the best version of myself and making the strongest possible contribution on the field,” he said.