Cricket Ireland Confirms T20I Series Against India Will Proceed Amid Security Assessments
Upcoming T20I Series Confirmed
Cricket Ireland has assured fans that there are no security concerns regarding the upcoming two-match T20I series against India, which will take place as scheduled. This assurance follows a detailed security assessment conducted in Belfast, the second-largest city in Ireland. Earlier this month, there were reports of civil unrest in the area, which raised doubts about the series proceeding. However, Cricket Ireland has confirmed that they have received no information indicating any planned protests or demonstrations that could disrupt the matches.
This confirmation brings Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's senior debut for India closer. At just 15 years old, he stands to become the youngest player to represent India, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's long-standing record if he plays in either of the T20Is this week. Sooryavanshi has already made history by being the youngest player selected for the senior squad.
Cricket Ireland Addresses Security Issues
In an official statement, Cricket Ireland said, "After a thorough review of the current security situation in Belfast, we can confirm that both T20 International matches between Ireland and India at Stormont on June 26 and 28 will go ahead as planned. The safety of everyone involved is our top priority. We are collaborating closely with the PSNI, venue management, and security partners to ensure that all necessary measures are in place for the safe execution of both matches." They added, "Current evaluations show no specific threats to the matches, teams, officials, spectators, or the venue, and there are no anticipated protests or demonstrations that would affect match days. Thus, both T20I matches will proceed as scheduled."
India's Historic Match in Belfast
This series marks India's first match in Belfast, having previously faced Ireland in Dublin. The Stormont venue has a capacity of 4,200 spectators. The Indian team is set to arrive in Belfast via London on June 23. Cricket Ireland stated, "We will continue to coordinate with all relevant agencies and keep an eye on developments leading up to the matches. Fans attending are encouraged to check official Cricket Ireland channels for updates and to allow extra travel time if needed." They expressed excitement about welcoming fans from Ireland, India, and beyond for what promises to be a remarkable celebration of international cricket.
Varun Chakaravarthy, who is currently in the final stages of rehabilitation after a left foot injury sustained during IPL 2026, has been ruled out of the upcoming T20Is against Ireland. India's squad for the Ireland series includes: Shreyas Iyer (Captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Shivam Dube, Tilak Varma (Vice-Captain), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Prasidh Krishna.