India’s cricket board said Wednesday it would play two matches against Ireland ahead of the tour of England in July.
Ireland — who were awarded Test status alongside Afghanistan last year — will host India in Dublin on June 27 and June 29 for two Twenty20 games.
India last toured Ireland in 2007, playing a one-day international in Belfast which they won by nine wickets.
The two sides have met only once for a match in the shortest format, squaring off in Nottingham during the 2009 World T20.
India have tours of both England and Australia lined up for the 2018 season.
The world’s top Test side, led by skipper Virat Kohli, lost the first of three Tests to South Africa in Cape Town on Monday.
The games will be the first T20 internationals for Ireland head coach Graham Ford, and the South African is relishing the prospect of pitting his wits against such high profile opposition.
“It’s fantastic news for the lads and fans alike,” said Ford, who only took the reins of the Irish side last month.
“The matches will of course be a huge challenge for the team, but what an opportunity for everyone to showcase their talents in front of a huge audience, both at the games and live on television,” added the 57-year-old former South Africa head coach.
