Ireland appoint Gary Wilson as men's head coach after historic win over India

Cricket Ireland appointed Gary Wilson as the new Head Coach of the Ireland Men’s team on Monday, June 29. The appointment comes after Heinrich Malan decided to step down following discussions surrounding the upcoming World Cup Qualifier cycle, after serving in the role for more than four years.

Wilson represented Ireland in 292 international matches during a distinguished 15-year playing career before retiring in 2020. Following his retirement, he transitioned into coaching, taking charge of the North West Warriors before joining the Ireland men's senior team as assistant coach in 2022.

Wilson's appointment marks a historic milestone, as he becomes the first Irish-born head coach of the Ireland men's team since John Wills in the early 1990s.

Wilson assumes the role at a crucial stage of Ireland's international cycle, with the team focused on securing qualification for the 2027 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.

Wilson will continue to work alongside Heinrich Malan over the next month to ensure a seamless handover before Ireland's ODI series against Afghanistan in August.

The 40-year-old said that coaching the Ireland national side is a huge honour and also thanked Heinrich Malan for putting him in positions that helped him get ready for the role over the past four years.

“Representing Ireland as a player is something I will always be hugely proud of, but to now take on the role of Head Coach is a very special honour that means a great deal to me. I’d like to put on record my thanks to Heinrich — over the last 4 years he has allowed me to have the responsibility that has put me in a position to be ready for this role and for that I am truly grateful. We have had some great days in that time, and I wish him and his family all the very best for what comes next,” said Wilson in a media release.

Ireland to next take on Afghanistan in ODI series

Ireland’s Director of High Performance Graeme West congratulated Wilson on his appointment, mentioning that he takes over the role at a crucial time ahead of the World Cup Qualifier cycle.

“I would like to congratulate Gary on his appointment — he has demonstrated strong leadership qualities both as a player and as a coach, and we look forward to working with him as we continue to develop this squad. Gary comes into the role at a crucial time in the World Cup Qualifier cycle and will now have valuable time to work with the squad during the build-up to the tournament, beginning with the Afghanistan series next month,” said West in a media release.

Meanwhile, Ireland will next take on Afghanistan in a five-match ODI series, beginning on August 5.