Heinrich Malan: Ireland men’s coach agrees contract extension until 2027

Cricket Ireland’s high performance director Richard Holdsworth said that the decision to extend Malan’s contract had been “very straightforward”.

“Heinrich’s communication has been excellent with players and support personnel, ensuring greater clarity in roles, responsibilities and key planning processes,” said Holdsworth.

“Over the last 18 months or so, the team has improved significantly in the T20 format which was our weakest format.

“His research into what world-class looks like, and the data he has gathered around the T20 format globally, has led to the production of a blueprint for the Ireland Men’s team which is now showing signs of success with a recent win against Pakistan, and a 3-0 Tri-series win in the Netherlands last week.”

Malan added that Ireland have been “gradually building a sustainable structure” that enables the squad to compete in all three formats of the game.

“One area I have been keen on developing is our players being able to better read the game situation and then, where they judge it appropriate, to have the freedom and confidence to try and impose their style and natural instincts on the game,” he added.

“This work has borne fruit in two successful T20 World Cup qualifying campaigns and in our recent Test success.

“But we are all conscious that we’ve missed out on playing in the last two 50-over world cups, and qualification for the 2027 tournament will be one of the focus areas across the next three years.”