All change for Ireland as Heinrich Malan steps down as head coach with replacement already announced
Heinrich Malan says he will look back on his time as Ireland men’s head coach with “great affection” after stepping away from the role.
The shock news comes just 24 hours after Ireland secured a memorable T20 series win against India in Belfast.
He has been replaced by Gary Wilson, who made 292 international appearances as a player, to become the first Irish-born head coach of Ireland men since John Wills more than 30 years ago.
Speaking about his appointment, Wilson said: “Representing Ireland as a player is something I will always be hugely proud of, but to now take on the role of head coach is a very special honour that means a great deal to me.
“I have been extremely fortunate over the years to have worked with some of the best coaches around and have had the opportunity to learn so much.
"My coaching beliefs have been shaped by each coach I have worked with, and are centred around strong communication, building and maintaining relationships to get the best out of players, hard work, a player-centred focus, and setting high challenges for those who are driven to succeed.
"Above all, the power of the connection to the Shamrock is something I’ve witnessed and is something I intend on using to our advantage.
“I’d like to put on record my thanks to Heinrich — over the last four years he has allowed me to have the responsibility that has put me in a position to be ready for this role and for that I am truly grateful. We have had some great days in that time, and I wish him and his family all the very best for what comes next.”
Malan was appointed as head coach in 2022 and has overseen a successful period for the country in his time in charge, which included three consecutive T20 World Cup qualifications, Ireland’s first three Test match victories, and the continued development of a wider pool of international-standard players.
Despite Malan's current contract extending into early 2027, the 45-year-old believes the timing is right in the cycle to step back following the just concluded successful T20 series versus India.
Speaking about his decision to leave, Malan said: “It has been an absolute privilege to work with these players, staff and the wider Irish cricket community. My family and I have had a wonderful experience living here, and we will look back on our time involved in Irish cricket with great affection.
“On the field, we can look back with great pride on our historic T20 World Cup victory against England in Melbourne, our first-ever Test victory against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi, the first home Test win vs Zimbabwe in Belfast, the historic T20 series win at home vs India and beating Pakistan, West Indies, South Africa as well as direct qualifications for T20 WC’s through our consistent ability to challenge and beat the world's top teams.
“Thank you to the players, coaches and staff for believing in our shared vision — it has been a very special journey.”