Indian Cricket Team (Source:AFP)
The Indian cricket team is set to enter one of its much-awaited phases in recent years, with a packed schedule lined up over the next few months. After recently lifting the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title, the focus now shifts to the upcoming IPL 2026 season.
Once the tournament concludes, Team India will quickly move into international cricket with multiple series scheduled across formats and countries.
Immediately after the IPL 2026 season, India will host the Afghanistan team for a multi-format series. The series will begin with a one-off Test match, followed by three ODIs.
India to face Ireland in June
In a significant addition, India are also set to tour Ireland for a short T20I series in June (exclusive to thecrichub.com). The tour was confirmed by Graham West, who highlighted its importance to Ireland's preparations for future global events.
The series will take place shortly after the Afghanistan matches and before India departs for England. According to the reports, India will face Ireland in two T20Is in Belfast on June 26 and 28.
“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 stated in a press release.
Ireland to face India with new captain
For Ireland, the series marks the beginning of a new chapter in T20 cricket following Paul Stirling's stepping down as captain in the format.
“It has been a tremendous honour 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.
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"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.
India's record vs Ireland
It is worth noting that in T20Is, the head-to-head record between The 'Men in Blue' and Ireland is interesting. India has an upper hand in the head-to-head record. The teams have faced each other 8 times in T20Is, and the Indian team has won all of the matches.
It is important to note that 'Men in Blue' has toured Ireland three times in the past seven years (2018, 2022, and 2023).
England Tour to follow immediately
After the Ireland tour, India will travel to England for a full-fledged white-ball series starting July 1. The tour will include five T20Is and three ODIs, running until July 19.
This series is expected to be highly competitive, given England's strength in limited-overs cricket. It will also be a major test for the Indian team's depth and adaptability, especially after a continuous run of matches across different conditions.
With back-to-back series lined up, the team management will need to carefully handle player fitness and rotation. The England tour is likely to play a key role in shaping the Indian team's preparations for upcoming ICC events and bilateral commitments.
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