Ireland has canceled a planned series against Afghanistan due to financial issues, but hopes to reschedule it next year. The cricket schedule includes matches against West Indies and England, emphasizing budget management needs. Discussions are ongoing between the two cricket boards for future opportunities.
Ireland has officially canceled a planned multi-format series against Afghanistan this year due to financial constraints. However, the Afghanistan Cricket Board remains optimistic about rescheduling the series for the following year. In May and June, Ireland is set to host six limited-overs matches against the West Indies, and England will visit in September for a three-match Twenty20 series.
Initially, Ireland was scheduled to host Afghanistan for one test match, three one-day internationals, and three T20 matches in August. Cricket Ireland Chief Executive Warren Deutrom announced this cancellation, stating, “One planned series that won’t go ahead for financial reasons is against Afghanistan.” He explained that the decision was influenced by the organization’s need to manage short-term budgetary constraints and to ensure balanced investment aligned with the organization’s strategic objectives.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board expressed disappointment but acknowledged the necessity of Ireland’s decision. ACB Chief Executive Naseeb Khan commented that the series presented a valuable opportunity for players of both nations and noted, “While we acknowledge their reasons, this would have been a valuable opportunity for players from both countries.” The ACB is actively engaging with Cricket Ireland to explore options for rescheduling the series at a mutually convenient time.
In summary, Ireland has canceled its home series against Afghanistan due to financial difficulties, but both boards are in discussions for potential rescheduling. The situation highlights the financial pressures on Cricket Ireland while also underlining the importance of the series for players in both nations. Stakeholders remain hopeful for collaboration in the future to facilitate the series.
Original Source: www.channelnewsasia.com
