William Porterfield to lead Ireland in their first ever Test match against Pakistan

The Test match will be played from May 11 to May 15.

Iconic day in Test cricket awaits Ireland. (AFP)

Ireland after getting Test status by ICC last June will finally materialize their dream of playing Test cricket when they play against Pakistan starting May 11. While Ireland will start their journey against Pakistan, Afghanistan will play their own opening Test against India in Bengaluru from June 14.

Senior batsman William Porterfield will lead the Irishmen in the iconic match. The senior pros who will be a part of the match are Ed Joyce, Kevin O'Brien, Niall O'Brien and Boyd Rankin among others.

On the occasion of Ireland being awarded Full Membership, board CEO Warren Deutrom, had expressed his delight that the hard work had finally paid off. "We are delighted and proud with today's historic announcement. It is an extraordinary testament to the talent and endeavour of thousands of passionate players, coaches, volunteers, staff, clubs and committee people," he said.

"We would like to thank most sincerely the ICC and its members for bestowing this honour on us today. It is a reflection not just of our past achievements but of our potential to grow our great game. We shall spend the next 24 hours marking the moment and celebrating this great day for Irish cricket and next week the hard work of planning to transition to full membership and Test status begins in earnest."

Meanwhile, there is a festive atmosphere around Afghanistan playing their first ever Test match against India in Bengaluru. Virat Kohli owing to his county commitment with Surrey will be missing out on the Test match. 

 
 

By Anshuman Roy - 04 May, 2018

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