Key points: 

• New coalition Government confirms support for the creation of the National Cricket Centre
• Document also confirms Government support for co-hosting of T20 World Cup 2030

DUBLIN – Cricket Ireland today welcomed the new coalition Government’s Draft Programme for Government 2025 which confirms its support for construction of the National Cricket Centre and hosting of the 2030 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

The Draft Programme for Government is the proposed five-year manifesto of the incoming Irish Government, which signals its investment priorities for its term of government.

Brian MacNeice, Chair of Cricket Ireland, said:

“233 years ago, the first recorded game of cricket was played in Ireland. While there have been many advances made by Irish cricket over the years since, thanks to the new Irish Government’s Draft Programme for Government, the next five years may be the most truly transformational yet.

“Cricket was referenced not once, but twice in the draft Programme – firstly, in re-affirming that the Government will proceed with the development of the National Cricket Centre, and secondly, by committing its support in co-hosting the 2030 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Indeed, this underscores the Government’s recognition that the development of our new Dublin stadium is critical to the success of our World Cup hosting obligations.

“We are also pleased to note the Government’s intention to promote an all-island approach to hosting major international sporting events, building on the Major International Events policy. In that regard, we shall continue our strenuous efforts with the relevant authorities north and south to deliver a World Cup legacy on both sides of the border.

“On behalf of the Irish cricket community, we would like to thank the leadership and members of the new Government for their support for Irish cricket. We look forward to working closely in partnership with the Government and other stakeholders to deliver these strategic initiatives and others to ensure the next five years will see exciting progress and growth for our great game.”