Ireland have announced their 14-member Test squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand, with veteran opener Paul Stirling and key pacers Josh Little and Mark Adair ruled out due to injuries. The series, part of the ICC World Test Championship, will see Ireland play a one-off Test against the Black Caps in June.
Stirling Misses Out Due to Injury
Paul Stirling, Ireland's most experienced batter in Test cricket, has been ruled out of the squad after failing to recover from a hamstring injury. The 34-year-old has scored 1,234 runs in 15 Tests, including three centuries. His absence leaves a significant gap at the top of the order, with captain Andrew Balbirnie expected to open alongside newcomer Stephen Doheny.
Pace Attack Depleted
The Irish pace attack has been hit hard by injuries, with Josh Little (side strain) and Mark Adair (ankle issue) both unavailable. Little, who has taken 25 wickets in 10 Tests, and Adair, with 18 scalps, were key members of the bowling unit. In their absence, the selectors have called up uncapped pacer Fionn Hand and recalled Craig Young, who last played a Test in 2023.
Squad Overview
The squad features a mix of experience and youth, with all-rounder Curtis Campher and spinner Andy McBrine retaining their places. Captain Andrew Balbirnie emphasized the need for the team to adapt quickly to conditions in New Zealand. "It's a challenging tour, but we have a balanced squad. The young players have been performing well in domestic cricket, and this is an opportunity for them to step up," Balbirnie said.
The full squad includes: Andrew Balbirnie (c), Stephen Doheny, Curtis Campher, George Dockrell, Fionn Hand, Graham Hume, Andy McBrine, Barry McCarthy, PJ Moor, Paul Stirling (injured, replaced by Doheny), Craig Young, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Harry Tector, and Ben White.
New Zealand Series Details
The one-off Test is scheduled to begin on June 10 at Hagley Oval in Christchurch. Ireland have lost all three of their previous Tests against New Zealand, including a heavy defeat in 2022. The team will aim to improve their record and gain valuable World Test Championship points.
Ireland's head coach Heinrich Malan expressed confidence in the squad despite the injuries. "We have depth in our system, and the players called up have earned their spots through consistent performances. We are focusing on executing our plans and competing hard," he said.
The series will be followed by a three-match ODI series, for which the squad will be announced separately.
