Paul Stirling has been confirmed as Ireland’s permanent white-ball captain, with Andrew Balbirnie staying in charge of the Test match team.

Stirling was appointed interim captain in July when Balbirnie stepped down after Ireland failed to qualify for this year’s World Cup and the only doubt that he would take over on a permanent basis was Stirling’s commitment to the franchise circuit where is remains in demand throughout the world.

That has obviously been resolved to everyone’s satisfaction and having already cited his wish to take part in the next 50-over World Cup in 2027, when Stirling will be 37, it looks like he is in for the long-term as white-ball captain, with the next ICC event, the T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies next June.

Stirling has already played 376 games for Ireland since his debut in 2008, 33 as captain, and will become Ireland’s most capped player next week, he is currently just 13 behind the retired Kevin O’Brien.

Speaking after his appointment Stirling said: “Playing for Ireland has always been a source of pride for me and to be confirmed the permanent white-ball captain is a recognition I don’t take for granted.

“I said recently that ODI cricket was my favourite format and to watch on as the World Cup has been under way is a great motivator for me to ensure we are at the next event in 2027.

“I know this desire is a common feeling throughout the squad and so we’ll look to harness this drive  into the next series scheduled for December (against Zimbabwe).

“We also recognise that there is only eight months to the next T20 World Cup so the clock has well and truly started on our preparations.”