Heinrich Malan steps down as Ireland head coach; Gary Wilson takes over

Less than 24 hours after overseeing Ireland's historic 2-0 T20I series win against India, Heinrich Malan has stepped down as head coach of the senior men's team with immediate effect. Gary Wilson, Ireland's assistant coach since 2021, has been appointed his successor.

Malan's contract was set to run into early 2027, but the 45-year-old South African chose to step away. Cricket Ireland stated he believed the timing was right for a new coach to focus on securing qualification for next year's ODI World Cup.

Appointed in January 2022, Malan's tenure saw Ireland qualify for three consecutive T20 World Cups (2022, 2024, 2026), including a famous win over eventual champions England in the 2022 edition in Melbourne. He was also head coach for all three of Ireland's Test wins to date.

"It has been an absolute privilege to work with these players, staff and the wider Irish cricket community," Malan said. "We can look back with great pride on our historic T20 World Cup victory against England, first Test victory against Afghanistan, first home Test win vs Zimbabwe, historic T20 series win at home vs India, and beating Pakistan, West Indies, and South Africa."

Wilson becomes the first Irish-born head coach of the senior men's setup in over 30 years since John Mills. He played 105 ODIs, 81 T20Is, and two Tests for Ireland, captaining the side in 26 T20Is. After retiring in 2021, he coached the North West Warriors before becoming national assistant coach.

"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," Wilson said. "My coaching beliefs are centred around strong communication, building relationships, hard work, a player-centred focus, and setting high challenges."

Wilson thanked Malan, who will assist the transition over the next month ahead of Ireland's five-match ODI series against Afghanistan in August, Wilson's first series in charge.