Lorcan Tucker's leadership credentials have been put to the test, but he's risen to the challenge like a seasoned pro. The 29-year-old wicketkeeper-batter has been named permanent captain of the Ireland T20 International team, and what a baptism by fire it is – six established players are out injured ahead of the two-match series against India at Stormont on July 26 and 28.
With 159 games under his belt across all formats since making his debut in 2016, Tucker's got the experience to back up his new role. He's previously led the side twice and served as vice-captain since 2025, so he knows what it takes to get results. And now, with Andrew Balbirnie at the helm for Tests and Paul Stirling leading the ODI squad, Ireland has a clear structure in place – Tucker's appointment is the icing on the cake.
But don't be fooled – this isn't a team of A-players; it's more like a B-plus outfit with some fresh faces thrown into the mix. Josh Little (stress fracture), Mark Adair (rectus muscle tear), Paul Stirling (torn calf muscle), Curtis Campher (hand fracture), Barry McCarthy (complete ACL tear), and Jordan Neill (shoulder and foot injuries) are all out, leaving a gaping hole in their ranks.
Enter the newbies: Matthew Hollard and Jai Moondra get their first call-ups to the Ireland squad, while Reuben Wilson – who made his Test debut against New Zealand just recently – earns his maiden T20I cap. These young guns will be itching to prove themselves against one of the world's top teams.