Ireland Cricket
Full ICC Member Since 2017 - A Rising Force in World Cricket
Cricket Overview
Ireland was granted Full Member status by the ICC in June 2017, becoming the 11th nation to achieve this milestone. Cricket has a long history on the island, dating back to the mid-19th century, and the sport has experienced a remarkable resurgence in the 21st century. Cricket Ireland governs the sport across the entire island, representing both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Ireland made headlines at the 2007 Cricket World Cup by defeating Pakistan in one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history. They followed this with another stunning victory over England at the 2011 World Cup. These giant-killing performances, led by players like Kevin O'Brien, who hit the fastest century in World Cup history against England, put Irish cricket on the global map and paved the way for Full Member status.
Since gaining Test status, Ireland has played Test matches against major nations and continues to develop its cricket infrastructure. Players like Paul Stirling, Andrew Balbirnie, and Josh Little represent the modern era of Irish cricket. The Inter-Provincial Series provides a strong domestic competition, and Cricket Ireland is investing in youth development and facility upgrades to grow the sport further.
Cricket Achievements
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Full ICC Membership (2017)
Became the 11th Full Member of the ICC, earning the right to play Test cricket.
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Famous World Cup Upset Over Pakistan (2007)
Defeated Pakistan in the 2007 World Cup, one of the greatest upsets in cricket history.
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Kevin O'Brien's Fastest World Cup Century (2011)
Kevin O'Brien smashed the fastest century in World Cup history (50 balls) against England in 2011.
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Multiple ICC Trophy Wins as Associate
Won the ICC Intercontinental Cup multiple times, demonstrating dominance among Associate nations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ireland was granted Full Member status by the ICC in June 2017, alongside Afghanistan. This meant Ireland gained the right to play Test cricket. Their first Test was played against Pakistan in May 2018 at Malahide in Dublin.
Ireland's most famous upset came at the 2007 World Cup when they defeated Pakistan by 3 wickets. The result was so shocking it contributed to Pakistan's early elimination from the tournament. Ireland also defeated England at the 2011 World Cup in a thrilling run chase led by Kevin O'Brien's record-breaking century.
Yes, Cricket Ireland is an all-island governing body that represents both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. This is similar to rugby union, where the Irish Rugby Football Union also operates on an all-island basis. Players from both jurisdictions are eligible to represent Ireland in international cricket.