Ireland to host Pakistan and Sri Lanka in one-day internationals

The North East is due to host the second Test between England and Sri Lanka in May.

England’s 2016 home internationals will begin with worldwide season will begin with Investec Test Matches against Sri Lanka at Headingley and The Emirates Durham ICG before the three-match series concludes at Lord’s.

Following that, Pakistan – who will be touring England for the first time since 2010 – will return to Lord’s for the 2nd Royal London ODI on Saturday 27 August.

The two sides meet in the UAE this winter, and will lock horns again next year for a four-match Test series encompassing games at Lord’s, Old Trafford, Edgbaston and The Oval.

European Central Bank chief executive officer Tom Harrison said: “Alastair Cook was absolutely right to acknowledge the contribution of England’s fans to our Ashes success”.

“They have been unwavering in their support this summer and we would urge as many as possible to return to our global venues next summer”.

Ireland looked on course to win the second game after Ed Joyce scored 116 not out as they posted 229, but Pakistan recovered from 133 for 7 to win by two wickets.

Interest in next summer’s global programme has been heightened by England’s recent Ashes triumph and the explosive nature of the 3-2 Royal London One-Day Series victory over New Zealand.

That is when the ECB’s Major Match Group determined the split of games between 2012 and 2016, and it has subsequently been awarded fixtures for the 2017-19 period.