Ireland vs Italy in UAE, 2026

A three-match T20 International series will be played between Ireland and Italy in Dubai. This series will serve as a crucial platform for both teams to prepare for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. The series offers both teams the opportunity to play more matches before the mega event.

This tour holds particular significance for the Italian cricket team, as it will be their first bilateral T20 International series against a full ICC member nation, comprising three matches. The series between Ireland and Italy will be played at the Sevens Stadium in Dubai and will commence on January 23, 2026.

Historically, the two teams have faced each other only once in the T20 International format. This encounter took place during the 2023 qualifiers for the 2024 T20 World Cup, where Ireland narrowly defeated Italy by seven runs. The 2026 T20 World Cup will be Italy's first World Cup appearance, and this T20 series will provide them with valuable experience playing against a strong opponent and help them gauge their standing at the international level.

For Ireland, the series against Italy is just one part of their extensive preparation. After concluding their matches in Dubai, they are scheduled to face the UAE in a two-match T20 series starting on January 29. Let's take a look at the schedule and the squads for the Ireland vs Italy T20 Series 2026.