In the build up to the T20 World Cup, making their debut in the tournament, Italy, are set to play their first three-match bilateral series against a full-member nation as they take on Ireland at the Sevens Stadium in Dubai.

Italy secured their historic qualification to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 by beating Scotland in the European Qualifiers but are yet to play an international  fixture since 11 July 2025.

The Federazione Cricket Italiana and Cricket Ireland will be keen to gain some vital gametime before the marquee tournament begins in India and Sri Lanka in February.

President of the Federazione Cricket Italiana, Maria Lorena Haz Paz made the following statement:

“From the moment that Italy Men defeated Scotland then went on to progress through the World Cup Qualifier for the first time in our history, we have turned our attention to creating the best possible preparation programme for our players ahead of the tournament in February.

“We were extremely pleased that Cricket Ireland was so amenable to working with us on pulling together this series – a series in itself will be historic given it will be our first three-match bilateral series against a Full Member of the ICC.

“We look forward to the fixtures as we create history and, we hope, raise the profile and support for our cricket team across Italy – and maybe even win a few fans around the world.”

The Paul Stirling-led side recently lost a T20I series 2-1 to Bangladesh and in August 2025 England beat them 3-0 in Dublin and will be looking to get into rhythm before their group stage matches in Sri Lanka.

Fixtures: (Sevens Stadium, Dubai)

• 23 January 2026, Ireland Men v Italy Men, 1st T20I 

• 25 January 2026, Ireland Men v Italy Men, 2nd T20I 

• 26 January 2026, Ireland Men v Italy Men, 3rd T20I

Head to Head:

Ireland have won the only T20 International played between the sides 

Upon completion of the series, Italy will head to India where they will slot into Group C with England, West Indies, Bangladesh and Nepal.

Whereas, Ireland will remain in UAE and play a two-match T20I series against UAE in Dubai on 29 January and 31 January, these fixtures are set to be played at the Dubai International Stadium.

Fixtures: (Dubai International Stadium)

• 29 January 2025, Ireland Men v UAE Men, 1st T20I 

• 31 January 2025, Ireland Men v UAE Men, 2nd T20I 

Ireland men will travel to Sri Lanka, where they will compete in Group B in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup along with Australia, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe and Oman. 

Head-to-head:

The two teams have played 11 T20Is against each other with UAE has won 7 while Ireland has won 4.

Richard Holdsworth, Director of Cricket told Cricket Ireland, “We are delighted that the Emirates Cricket Board has agreed to host and play two T20Is against Ireland at Dubai International Stadium. This series against the UAE will provide part of an exceptional warm-up programme for our players – we hope to announce more fixtures shortly.

“Our thanks to the ECB and we look forward to playing some competitive cricket in such a prestigious stadium.”