Ireland to host West Indies in September 2017

(CRICBUZZ)For the first time since famously beating them at the ICC World Cup 2015, Ireland will be facing off against West Indies in a One-Day International (ODI), at home in September 2017. Cricket Ireland confirmed that the match will be played on September 13.

Phil Simmons, the West Indies coach, expressed his excitement at the prospect of returning to Ireland, where he was the national team coach for eight years. Simmons was at the helm for Ireland when the likes of Paul Stirling, Ed Joyce and Niall O'Brien powered their side to a memorable world cup victory over West Indies.

"I'm really looking forward to bringing the West Indies team to Ireland," Simmons said on Thursday (July 7). "I had eight great years there as coach and made some lasting friendships as well as winning trophies. It should be a tough contest and Irish conditions will be ideal in helping our preparations for England.

Ireland have also announced the itinerary for their home tri-series next year, involving New Zealand and Bangladesh. The series will begin with the hosts squaring off against Bangladesh on May 12, and go on till May 24.

"It's fantastic we're getting the opportunity to play against so many of the ICC full members. We've just played Sri Lanka and have games against Pakistan, South Africa and Australia later this summer," a buoyed John Bracewell, the Ireland coach, said.

Ireland face a busy start to their summer, with two games against England, followed by the tri-series and the sole fixture against West Indies. Bracewell is particularly looking forward for his players to experience the opportunity of playing at the iconic Lord's in London.