International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday (Jun 22) welcomed two new countries to the Test arena after the Full Council members unanimously granted Ireland and Afghanistan Full Member status in the board meeting in London.


Ireland have been really great in the World Cups beating some of the major nations. Having played their first 50-over World Cup in 2007 and immediately making an impact by beating Pakistan. Ireland have since participated in every ICC event, causing a few upsets along the way.

Afghanistan, on the other hand, have grown tremendously since they received their One-Day status in 2011. Having failed to reach the World Cup the same year, the Asian side has made giant steps in ODIs and Twenty20 cricket. They qualified for the 2015 World Cup and won their first game in the mega event by beating Scotland.

"I'd like to congratulate Afghanistan and Ireland on their Full Membership status which is the result of their dedication to improving performance both off and on the field resulting in the significant development and growth of cricket in their respective countries," David Richardson, the ICC chief executive, said.

"Both have clearly demonstrated they meet the new criteria and as such have made the progression to Full Membership," ICC CEO added.