First-Ever Three-Match Bilateral Series Against ICC Full Member for Italy Ahead of T20 World Cup
DUBAI: Ireland will face Italy in a three-match T20 International series in Dubai, starting January 23 at the Sevens Stadium. The series will serve as a crucial preparatory phase for both nations ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka.
The tour is a historic landmark for Italy, as it marks their first-ever three-match bilateral series against an ICC Full Member nation. Having qualified for their maiden T20 World Cup appearance, Italy aims to gain valuable experience from the contest.
Richard Holdsworth, Director of Cricket at Cricket Ireland, highlighted the series’ importance for acclimatisation. “We’re delighted… these three matches will be ideal for us as we acclimatise to hot conditions, having come straight from the Irish winter,” he said, acknowledging Italy’s strong qualification by beating Scotland.
Maria Lorena Haz Paz, President of Federazione Cricket Italiana, expressed excitement, noting that the series will raise the profile and support for Italian cricket. The two sides have only met once before in T20Is—a 2023 World Cup qualifier that Ireland won by seven runs.
Following the Italy series, Ireland will also play two T20Is against the UAE starting January 29, continuing their buildup for the global event scheduled to commence in February 2026.
