The Irish Government has announced a €3.5 million Shared Island investment to redevelop cricket facilities at the Stormont Estate in Belfast as Ireland prepares to co-host the 2030 Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup with the United Kingdom.
The funding will support the upgrade of the Stormont cricket venue, which is expected to host matches during the international tournament. The redevelopment is part of a wider effort to create world-class sporting infrastructure and strengthen cooperation across the island of Ireland.
The 2030 T20 World Cup is expected to be one of the largest sporting events ever hosted in Ireland and the UK in terms of global audience reach. The tournament will require multiple international-standard venues capable of welcoming teams, spectators, and international broadcasters.
Alongside the Stormont development, Ireland is also investing in the National Cricket Centre at the Sport Ireland Campus in Blanchardstown, Dublin. The facility is expected to become the largest spectator-capacity cricket venue in Ireland and a key location for the tournament.
The investment is designed to deliver long-term benefits beyond the World Cup by supporting the growth of both men’s and women’s cricket. Improved facilities are expected to encourage greater participation at grassroots level and strengthen pathways for future athletes.
Government representatives highlighted that cricket has experienced significant growth in Ireland in recent years, including increased participation among diverse communities. The upgraded facilities will help support wider access to the sport while enhancing Ireland’s reputation as a host for major international events.
The project reflects a broader commitment to cross-border collaboration through sport, creating lasting infrastructure and opportunities for communities across Ireland.
