Ireland set for four-day Test against England at Lord's

Ireland are to return to Lord's for a four-day Test match against England next summer, four years after their historic first match at the iconic venue.

The Test match, taking place from 1-4 June, will be a superb challenge for Andrew Balbirnie's side, with England currently ranked fourth in the world following a series win over South Africa earlier this month.

Ireland were granted Test status in 2017 but are yet to record a victory after three matches, against England, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Ireland captain Balbirnie is keen for Ireland to return to Test cricket, after their last match in the format against England in 2019.

"As a player, there's no doubt that Test cricket is the absolute pinnacle of our sport. We were fortunate to play a Test against England at Lord’s back in 2019 - which was a memorable occasion for players and fans alike - so the news that we will be returning to play at Lord’s next year is very welcome," he said.

"That match against England in 2019 was the last Test we have played, so we are excited to be returning to play the red-ball game next year.

"It’s one of four Test matches we are scheduled to play in 2023, which is so important for such a relatively young squad. There is no better place to really learn, develop and test your game as in multi-day cricket."

As well as a three-day warm-up matches in May, which has yet to be finalised, Ireland will also play England in a three-game ODI series in September.