The dates have been set for England’s historic first Test match against Ireland at Lord’s next summer.
Ireland, who made their Test debut against Pakistan at Malahide in May, will head to London for a four-day match against England from July 24-27.
The clash is the precursor to next year’s Ashes series, which begins at Edgbaston on August 1. Lord’s hosts the second Test followed by Headingley, Old Trafford and the Oval.
ECB chief executive Tom Harrison said: “We fully supported the ICC’s decision to award full membership to cricket Ireland and we expect next summer’s inaugural Test match at Lord’s against our neighbours to be an historic celebration for all Irish cricket fans.
“It will also provide excellent Ashes preparation for England against an Irish team whose impressive performance against Pakistan earlier this year showed they can compete strongly in this form of the game.”
