Ireland to make Test debut against Pakistan

After becoming full member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) earlier this year, Ireland have confirmed that they would play their first Test match against Pakistan in May 2018.

Confirming the news, CEO Warren Deutrom said that he is delighted that Ireland are making their Test debut on the home soil and against a big nation like Pakistan.

"The Pakistan team has been a regular visitor to our shores in recent years, and their agreement to be our opponent on this important occasion for Irish cricket is further evidence of their terrific support," ESPNcricinfo quoted Deutrom as saying.

Irish team captain William Porterfield said that Test cricket is the pinnacle of the game and that the team's involvement in it would be a new step in their incredible journey of sports.

"It's sure to be an incredible and emotional experience for all involved. I know how much this will mean to all the players and just how much we all will forward to our dream of being Test cricketers realised. I'm certain there will be an incredible atmosphere from both sets of fans who will be keen to witness a piece of history," the captain said.

The exact date in May and Irish venue for the five-day Test are yet to be confirmed, but a final decision on both will be announced in due course.