Ireland confirm 48 cricketers for central contract list

Cricket Ireland has confirmed 48 central contracts for the 2025–26 season, continuing its commitment to developing both men’s and women’s cricket. The contracts include full-time, part-time, educational, and casual categories.

The men’s list features 24 players: 17 with full-time contracts and 7 on part-time deals. Notable full-time men’s contract holders include George Dockrell, Josh Little, Andrew Balbirnie, Paul Stirling, Harry Tector, and Craig Young.

The women’s squad also has 24 players: 11 on full-time contracts, 9 with educational contracts, and 5 on casual deals. Prominent women’s full-time players include Gaby Lewis, Laura Delany, Orla Prendergast, Jane Maguire, and Freya Sargent.

Ireland first introduced full-time central contracts for men in 2009. Part-time deals for women arrived in 2019, with the move to fully professional women’s contracts coming in 2022—a landmark step for the sport in Ireland.

Cricket Ireland has also pioneered “Educational Contracts” for student players, enabling them to focus on their studies while remaining integrated with the national setup. These players can participate as full-time professionals during academic breaks.

High Performance Director Graham West said:

“These contracts recognise our best talent and ensure access to high-quality training, healthcare, and lifestyle support. This helps players develop not just as cricketers but as people.”

He added:

“It’s critical for staying competitive internationally and inspiring the next generation.”

Contract types at a glance:

• Full-time: Year-round professional deal

• Part-time: For defined parts of the year

• Educational: Tailored around academic commitments

• Casual: Match-based financial and medical support