William Porterfield Steps Down As Ireland Captain, Andrew Balbirnie Takes Over

Porterfield led Ireland in two 50-over World Cups and five T20 World Cups, but perhaps his most significant moment as captain was leading Ireland out at its historic first-ever Test against Pakistan

Ireland cricket saw a change of guard at the very top after experienced campaigner William Porterfield stepped down as national team's skipper after 11 years at the helm. The 35-year-old, who took over from Trent Johnston in 2008, has been replaced by Andrew Balbirnie.

“It has been an incredible journey, and a fantastic honour to have captained my country over the past 11 and a half years,” Porterfield said in a statement on the federation website.

“I feel, and in consultation with Cricket Ireland, that now is the right time to hand over that mantle.” Porterfield, who intends to keep playing international cricket, led the senior Irish side 253 times across all forms of the game since taking over from Johnston. He led Ireland in two 50-over World Cups and five T20 World Cups, but perhaps his most significant moment as captain was leading Ireland out at its historic first-ever Test against Pakistan in Malahide in May 2018. “There have been many highs, along with a few lows along the way, but I can honestly say that it has been thoroughly enjoyable,” he said. Leinster batsman Balbirnie, who will take over the Test and ODI teams, played his first one-day international against Scotland in 2010. He played in Ireland’s first Test against Pakistan but the 28-year-old failed to score a run in either innings, becoming the 44th player in the history of Test cricket to be dismissed for a pair on debut. “The selectors have made a great choice in appointing ‘Balbo’,” said Porterfield. “Having spoken to him, I know how honoured and excited he is to get going.