Cricket Ireland has appointed former international batter Ed Joyce as the High Performance Batting Coach for the senior men’s squad and the male talent pathway. The appointment, effective September 28, 2026, marks Joyce’s return to the national coaching structure after previously leading the Ireland Women’s team.
Joyce joins the men’s setup following a period of mixed results for the national side. In June 2026, Ireland secured a 2-0 T20I series sweep against India, their first bilateral series victory over the team. However, this was followed by a 4-0 defeat in a five-match ODI series against Afghanistan in August 2026. Joyce succeeds his previous role at Gloucestershire County Cricket Club to take up the position.
His remit includes both the senior international team and the development of the male talent pathway. Analysis of the appointment suggests the role is intended to stabilize the batting unit in the 50-over format ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier, which is scheduled to take place between February 22 and March 23, 2027.
“When I look at the Ireland Men’s side over recent years, it’s obvious to see the amount of hard work that has gone on behind-the-scenes in preparing our players to be competitive on the international stage,” Joyce said. “I look forward to getting involved in this work and perhaps adding some insights and knowledge to push the batting group forward. The talent is there; the goal is now consistency.”
Joyce previously served as the Ireland Women’s head coach for nearly six years before stepping down in April 2025. Cricket Ireland’s Director of High Performance, Graeme West, noted that Joyce’s technical expertise was a primary factor in the appointment.
“Whether as player or coach, Ed Joyce has been an absolute asset to Irish cricket and we are delighted to have him return to our coaching ranks,” West said. “He was an outstanding and technically-renowned batter during his playing days, and his coaching abilities were on full display during his stint as Ireland Women’s head coach.”
The move integrates Joyce into a coaching staff led by Gary Wilson. His work with the talent pathway is expected to align technical standards between the domestic emerging players and the senior international requirements as Ireland prepares for its winter schedule and the upcoming 2027 qualification cycle.
