Last Updated on 46 minutes ago by Charbel Coorey
Heinrich Malan has stepped down from his role as Ireland men’s head coach soon after his team’s historic 2-0 T20I series win over world champions India. Malan, who has been in the role for over four years, made the decision to allow for a new coach to settle in ahead of a huge 2027 for the Irish.
Ireland will play an ODI series against Afghanistan in August, which serves as preparation for the crucial 2027 World Cup Qualifier tournament early next year.
“We can look back with pride” – Heinrich Malan on his time as Ireland men’s head coach
Malan oversaw a solid period for Ireland, who achieved a number of firsts under his tenure. They won Test matches home and away, beat England in the 2022 T20 World Cup and overcame India for the very first time in any format.
In a statement, Malan said the whole experience has been a privilege.
“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,” Malan said, via the Cricket Ireland website.
“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.”
The news would feel bittersweet for Irish players and fans after the joy of one of their greatest weekends. Gary Wilson has been appointed as the new coach, who will oversee an important period in Irish cricket. Wilson played two Tests, 105 ODIs and 81 T20Is for Ireland.
“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,” said Graeme West, Director of High Performance.
“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.”
