Cricket Ireland's chief executive, Warren Deutrom, has hailed the Irish government's approval for the development of a national cricket stadium as a momentous achievement, comparing its significance to the day Ireland became a full member of the International Cricket Council (ICC).
On Wednesday, the Irish government announced the green light for the planning and design phase of the ambitious project. The National Cricket Stadium and High-Performance Centre, to be situated in the National Sports Campus in Blanchardstown, is expected to complete its planning and design by mid-2025, with the tendering process to follow.
The first phase of the project, which includes constructing the main cricket oval and permanent seating for 4,000 spectators, along with provisions for temporary seating, is anticipated to be ready by 2028.
Deutrom expressed his excitement over the announcement, calling it "absolutely fantastic." He emphasised that the decision reflects the government's recognition of cricket as a sport of national importance, deserving of substantial investment. According to Deutrom, these new facilities will be crucial in advancing the sport, enabling top players at both the national and provincial levels to better train, prepare, and perform on the international stage.
Furthermore, the Cricket Ireland chief highlighted that the permanent venue would provide a world-class platform capable of hosting top international teams annually, and when Ireland co-hosts the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup with England and Scotland in 2030.
While acknowledging that it will take several years—potentially three to four—before the stadium is fully operational, Deutrom noted that Wednesday's announcement marks the official start of the project. He pointed out that reducing reliance on temporary infrastructure would allow more funds to be directed towards people, programs, and the development of club and regional facilities through a newly established club fund, ultimately fostering the growth of cricket in Ireland.
Cricket Ireland chair Brian MacNeice extended heartfelt gratitude to Irish Sports Minister Catherine Martin, Minister of State for Sport Thomas Byrne, and Sport Ireland for their generous support and belief in the future of cricket. MacNeice added that this investment would play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the sport in Ireland and realising the nation's aspirations of becoming a major force in world cricket.