Heinrich Malan ends tenure as Ireland’s head coach

Ireland Men’s Heinrich Malan has today informed his staff and players that he will be stepping away from the head coach role after more than four years.

Malan, 45, was appointed Head Coach in 2022 and has overseen a successful period for Ireland Men, including three consecutive T20 World Cup qualifications, Ireland’s first three Test match victories, and the continued development of a wider pool of international-standard players.

Malan’s current contract extends into early 2027; however, he believes the timing is right in the cycle to step back following the just-concluded successful T20 series versus India. It will allow a new head coach the opportunity to use the ODI series against Afghanistan in August as an important part of the preparations moving towards the all-important 50-over World Cup Qualifiers early in 2027.

“It has been an absolute privilege to work with these players, staff and the wider Irish cricket community. My family and I have had a wonderful experience living here, and we will look back on our time involved in Irish cricket with great affection.

“On the field, we can look back with great pride on our historic T20 World Cup victory against England in Melbourne, our first-ever Test victory against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi, the first home Test win vs Zimbabwe in Belfast, the historic T20 series win at home vs India and beating Pakistan, West Indies, South Africa as well as direct qualifications for T20 WC’s through our consistent ability to challenge and beat the world’s top teams.

“Thank you to the players, coaches and staff for believing in our shared vision — it has been a very special journey,” Malan said in a board statement.

Graeme West, Director of High Performance, also reflected on Malan’s departure.

“I have very much enjoyed working with Heinrich over the last two years and thank him for his outstanding contribution during that time. He joined us at a challenging period and has played a key role in progressing the Ireland Men’s set-up — from World Cup qualifications to historic Test wins, and in developing the depth of our playing group.

“Over recent months, we have been discussing the upcoming World Cup Qualifier cycle and what would best support the squad’s preparation. In those conversations, Heinrich expressed a desire to step back at this point, which aligned with our focus on ensuring continuity heading into that campaign.

“I would like to thank Heinrich for his dedication to the head coach role – through his leadership, he has worked hard to increase the depth of playing talent within the Irish system, which will benefit the squad immensely over the coming months and years. We wish Heinrich and his family well for the future,” West stated.