Ireland men's head coach Heinrich Malan has stepped down from his role with immediate effect, just hours after guiding the team to a historic 2-0 T20I series victory over India. The surprise announcement came less than a day after Ireland completed one of the biggest achievements in its cricketing history by defeating India in consecutive matches and securing its first-ever bilateral T20I series win over the Asian giants.Malan took charge of Ireland in 2022 and played a key role in the team's development over the past four years. Under his leadership, Ireland registered memorable victories against several Full Member nations, improved their performances across formats and continued to establish themselves as a competitive international side. His coaching tenure also included qualification for major ICC tournaments and the nurturing of several young players.

The timing of Malan's resignation has come as a major surprise, especially after such a landmark success against India. Cricket Ireland confirmed that his resignation takes effect immediately, though no official reason for his departure was provided in the initial announcement. The board is expected to begin the search for a new head coach ahead of the team's upcoming international assignments. Ireland's 2-0 triumph over India will remain a defining moment in the country's cricket history, and Malan leaves after helping deliver one of its greatest achievements. While his sudden exit marks the end of an important chapter, his contribution to Irish cricket is likely to be remembered for years as the team looks to build on the strong foundation established during his tenure.

Ireland complete historic 2-0 T20I series sweep over India with thrilling one-run victory

Ireland scripted history with a thrilling one-run victory over India in the second and final T20I in Belfast on Sunday, completing a memorable 2-0 series sweep. After registering their first-ever win over India in the opening match, the hosts backed it up with another impressive performance to secure their maiden bilateral T20I series triumph against the reigning world champions. Batting first, Ireland posted 154/8 in 20 overs. Harry Tector anchored the innings with a composed 53, while Ben Calitz chipped in with an important 37. India's bowlers kept things under control for most of the innings, but Ireland managed to finish strongly with valuable late runs.

India's chase got off to the worst possible start as the visitors slumped to 19/3. Jai Moondra starred with the ball, claiming 3/32, while Matt Hollard picked up 3/26 to keep the pressure firmly on the Indian batters. Despite the early collapse, Tilak Varma fought back with a brilliant 55, giving India hope of an unlikely victory. However, Ireland held their nerve in the closing stages, taking crucial wickets to restrict India to 153/9 and seal victory by the narrowest of margins. Prince Yadav struck a six off the final ball, but India still fell one run short of the target.The result ended India's unbeaten streak of 16 consecutive bilateral T20I series and marked one of the biggest achievements in Irish cricket history. It also highlighted Ireland's rapid progress in the shortest format and served as a wake-up call for the young Indian side ahead of its upcoming tour of England.