Lorcan Tucker named Ireland's T20 captain

Cricket Ireland has confirmed Lorcan Tucker as the new permanent T20I captain. He will lead a new-look squad into the two-match series against India in Belfast later this week.

The 29-year-old has 159 caps for Ireland across all formats since debuting in 2016 and has captained the side twice in a stand-in capacity at the T20 World Cup earlier this year.

Ireland squad for India T20Is: Lorcan Tucker (c), Ross Adair, Benjamin Calitz, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Stephen Doheny, Matthew Humphreys, Gavin Hoey, Matthew Hollard, Liam McCarthy, Jai Moondra, Harry Tector, Tim Tector, Reuben Wilson

"It's obviously a great privilege, and not one I thought would arrive when I started my career," Tucker said. "There's a feeling of responsibility to the playing group and organisation to represent them well and also to all the other captains who came before me."

"My approach to the captaincy is to lead from within and by example. I'd like to think I have good relationships with all the staff and players and can act with honesty and empathy. My main goal is to bring that next group of international cricketers through and into our system."

Balancing his captaincy and top-order role is a "juggling act" he's looking forward to. "It is tricky as a wicket-keeper to manage the in-game affairs, especially with the sixty second clock nowadays. But it's a privilege to be captain and with that comes the responsibility of having your house in order."

On facing India: "India are an absolute powerhouse when it comes to T20 cricket. There will be no tougher challenge for our group. Coming out of the IPL, there will be players who want to make an impact on the international scene. I hope we can spoil a few of those parties and show we are also here to make an impact."

Paul Stirling, Tucker's predecessor, was unavailable for selection with a torn calf muscle. Mark Adair (rectus muscle tear), Josh Little (stress fracture) and Curtis Campher (hand fracture) were among other big names ruled out due to injury.