Ireland have unveiled their squad for the upcoming T20I series against India, with the two-match contest set to be played in Belfast later this month. The series will mark Ireland’s first T20I assignment since the conclusion of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and represents the beginning of a fresh cycle leading up to the next global tournament in 2028.
The selectors have opted for a blend of experienced performers and emerging talent, giving opportunities to several promising youngsters while also dealing with the absence of a number of key players through injury. The matches against India are expected to provide a stern test for the hosts as they look to build momentum and develop a stronger pool of players for the future.
Lorcan Tucker takes charge of Ireland’s T20I side
The biggest development from the squad announcement is the appointment of wicketkeeper-batter Lorcan Tucker as Ireland’s new full-time T20I captain. Tucker takes over the leadership role after previously serving as vice-captain and leading the side on a temporary basis during the 2026 T20 World Cup when Paul Stirling was sidelined through injury. The 29-year-old is among Ireland’s most experienced international cricketers, having represented the country across all three formats. Tucker also brings leadership experience from domestic cricket, where he captains Leinster Lightning.
Speaking after his appointment, Tucker described the role as a huge honour and expressed pride in joining the list of players who have captained Ireland at the international level. He also emphasized his desire to lead by example and help guide the next generation of Irish cricketers as the team begins preparations for future ICC events.
Three players could make their T20I debuts
Ireland have also included three uncapped players in the squad, with Matthew Hollard, Jai Moondra and Reuben Wilson all in contention to make their T20I debuts against India. Wilson recently earned his first Test cap during Ireland’s one-off Test against New Zealand and has continued his rapid rise through the ranks.
Hollard and Moondra have also impressed in domestic cricket and now have the opportunity to break into the international setup. Their inclusion highlights Ireland’s long-term vision as they look to expand their talent pool and create greater competition for places within the national side.
Injury setbacks force major changes
Ireland will be without several established stars for the series due to injury concerns. Former captain Stirling remains sidelined with a torn calf muscle, while leading fast bowler Josh Little is recovering from a stress fracture. The injury list also includes Mark Adair, Curtis Campher, Barry McCarthy and Jordan Neill, all of whom were unavailable for selection. Their absence has opened the door for younger players to stake a claim in the national setup.
Despite the missing personnel, Ireland still possess a solid core featuring Harry Tector, George Dockrell, Gareth Delany and Ross Adair, who will be expected to shoulder much of the responsibility against a formidable Indian side. India will begin their tour with the two T20Is in Belfast before heading to England for a multi-format series. Ireland, meanwhile, will be eager to make a strong statement under new leadership and challenge one of the world’s premier white-ball teams.
Ireland squad for India T20Is: Lorcan Tucker (c), Ross Adair, Ben Calitz, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Stephen Doheny, Matthew Humphreys, Gavin Hoey, Matthew Hollard, Liam McCarthy, Jai Moondra, Harry Tector, Tim Tector, Reuben Wilson.
