Will the UAE Host Ireland for Two T20Is in January 2026 as Part of T20 WC Preparation?
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Synopsis
The UAE is gearing up to host Ireland for an exciting two-match T20I series in January 2026, serving as a vital preparation phase for both teams ahead of the Men's T20 World Cup. With matches set in Dubai, this series promises to be a thrilling lead-up to the prestigious tournament in India and Sri Lanka.
Key Takeaways
- The UAE will host Ireland for two T20Is in January 2026.
- Matches will be played at Dubai International Stadium.
- This series is part of the teams' preparations for the Men's T20 World Cup.
- UAE has a winning record against Ireland in T20Is.
- Both teams are looking to enhance their competitive edge through this series.
New Delhi, Nov 28 (NationPress) The UAE is set to welcome Ireland for a series of two T20I matches in January 2026 as both teams prepare for the upcoming 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to commence in India and Sri Lanka on February 7.
The matches are slated to take place at the Dubai International Stadium on January 29 in the evening and again on January 31 in the morning. “We are thrilled to confirm Ireland’s visit to the UAE. This series will greatly benefit both teams and aid in their preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026,”
said Subhan Ahmed, Chief Operating Officer of the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), in a statement. “At the ECB, we consistently strive to offer our players the finest exposure and opportunities by regularly hosting ICC Full Members. In 2025, we welcomed Bangladesh and later organized a tri-series in Sharjah involving Afghanistan and Pakistan.
“Our team gained invaluable experience by participating in the Asia Cup, and the Ireland series will provide an excellent lead-up to the prestigious ICC T20 World Cup,” Ahmed added.
The UAE and Ireland have faced each other 11 times in men’s T20Is, with the UAE emerging victorious in 7 of those matches, while Ireland has claimed 4 wins. Following this series, Ireland will head to Sri Lanka to compete against Australia, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, and Oman in their Group B encounters.
Meanwhile, the UAE will embark on a journey to India, where they will face South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan, and Canada in their Group D games of this major event. “We are excited that the Emirates Cricket Board has agreed to host and play two T20Is against Ireland at the Dubai International Stadium,”
stated Richard Holdsworth, Director of Cricket at Cricket Ireland. “This series will serve as a remarkable warm-up opportunity for our players, and we hope to announce additional fixtures soon. Our gratitude goes to the ECB as we anticipate competitive cricket in such a renowned venue.”
Point of View
I believe this upcoming series between the UAE and Ireland is crucial for both teams as they gear up for the 2026 Men's T20 World Cup. It showcases the UAE's commitment to developing cricket in the region and provides invaluable experience for players ahead of the global tournament.
NationPress
28/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the T20I matches between UAE and Ireland take place?
The T20I matches are scheduled for January 29 and January 31, 2026.
Where will the matches be held?
The matches will be held at the Dubai International Stadium.
Why is this series important for both teams?
This series serves as a critical preparation phase for both teams ahead of the 2026 Men's T20 World Cup.
How many times have UAE and Ireland faced each other in T20Is?
UAE and Ireland have met 11 times in men’s T20Is, with UAE winning 7 matches and Ireland winning 4.
What are the future plans for both teams after this series?
After this series, Ireland will travel to Sri Lanka for additional matches, while UAE will head to India for their group games.
