Ireland are all set to host their first Test match in almost two years as they face New Zealand in a four-day red-ball contest. Interestingly, despite being one of the strongest Test teams in the world and currently ranked No.5, New Zealand have played only five Tests in the last 18 months, showing how limited Test cricket has become outside the major cricketing nations.
Ireland enter the match with very little recent red-ball experience. Their domestic system currently lacks regular multi-day cricket, making preparation difficult. To gain some match practice, Ireland recently played a four-day first-class fixture at Malahide, where Mark Adair impressed with the ball, while Lorcan Tucker, Andy McBrine, and Curtis Campher contributed valuable half-centuries.
However, Ireland suffered a setback after experienced batter Paul Stirling picked up an injury. Young batter Jake Egan, who recently scored a century on first-class debut, could now make his Test debut in just his second first-class match.
New Zealand also come into the game after focusing mostly on white-ball cricket, including tours and the recent T20 World Cup where they finished runners-up. But with a stronger first-class structure and greater Test experience, the Kiwis will start as favorites.
As Ireland are not part of the World Test Championship, there are no WTC points at stake, but the match remains important preparation for New Zealand ahead of their upcoming England series.
