• Source:JND

A day after guiding Ireland to their first-ever T20I series victory against India, head coach Heinrich Malan announced that he is stepping down from his role.

Malan informed the players and support staff of his decision on Monday. Although his contract was due to continue until early 2027, he has chosen to leave as part of a planned transition before the next ICC ODI World Cup cycle.

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The South African took charge of Ireland in March 2022 after replacing Graham Ford. During his time as head coach, Ireland enjoyed one of the most successful periods in their history. The team qualified for three consecutive T20 World Cups, secured its first three Test victories, and expanded its pool of international-quality players. His final achievement with the side came on Sunday when Ireland defeated India 2-0 in Belfast to register a historic T20I series win.

"It has been an absolute privilege to work with these players, staff and the wider Irish cricket community. My family and I have had a wonderful experience living here, and we will look back on our time involved in Irish cricket with great affection.

"On the field, we can look back with great pride on our historic T20 World Cup victory against England in Melbourne, our first-ever Test victory against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi, the first home Test win vs Zimbabwe in Belfast, the historic T20 series win at home vs India and beating Pakistan, West Indies, South Africa as well as direct qualifications for T20 WC’s through our consistent ability to challenge and beat the world's top teams."

"Thank you to the players, coaches and staff for believing in our shared vision - it has been a very special journey," Malan said in his farewell statement.

Cricket Ireland said the timing of Malan's exit is part of its long-term planning. The board wants the new head coach to begin work before the ODI series against Afghanistan in August, which will help the team prepare for the 2027 ODI World Cup Qualifiers.

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Cricket Ireland's Director of High Performance, Graeme West, said both sides agreed that this was the right time for the change after discussing the team's future plans.

"I have very much enjoyed working with Heinrich over the last two years and thank him for his outstanding contribution during that time.

“He joined us at a challenging period and has played a key role in progressing the Ireland Men’s set-up - from World Cup qualifications to historic Test wins, and in developing the depth of our playing group.

"Over recent months, we have been discussing the upcoming World Cup Qualifier cycle and what would best support the squad’s preparation. In those conversations, Heinrich expressed a desire to step back at this point, which aligned with our focus on ensuring continuity heading into that campaign."

"I would like to thank Heinrich for his dedication to the head coach role – through his leadership, he has worked hard to increase the depth of playing talent within the Irish system, which will benefit the squad immensely over the coming months and years. We wish Heinrich and his family well for the future," West concluded.

Malan leaves Ireland after overseeing one of the team's most memorable eras, with several historic wins and major milestones that have strengthened the side ahead of the next World Cup cycle.


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