Communities Minister Gordon Lyons highlighted the bright future for local cricket as he attended the opening day of the test match between Ireland and New Zealand at Stormont today.

The fixture represents the second test match ever hosted at the Stormont venue and marks the first time the New Zealand team has been welcomed to Belfast for a test.

Minister Lyons said: "I welcome the New Zealand team to Belfast and hope they enjoy a very warm reception.

"The Ireland team have a tough task as they take on one of the very best teams in world cricket but I wish them every success.

"It is fantastic that Stormont is hosting its second test match in just two years and points to a bright future for local cricket. "With the 2030 ICC Men's T20 World Cup on the horizon, I will continue working with partners to ensure Northern Ireland, and Belfast, plays a key role in delivering this prestigious global tournament."

The Minister added: "I congratulate the Stormont Pavilion ground staff, the Northern Ireland Civil Service Sports Association (NICSSA) and Cricket Ireland on securing this match and developing such an outstanding international venue."

Sarah Keane, CEO of Cricket Ireland, said: "We are delighted with the support of Minister Lyons for cricket across Northern Ireland, and in their willingness to work with the Irish government on improving facilities that will sustain and grow the game for years to come.

"Given cricket is a very welcoming and highly inclusive sport in Ireland, an investment in cricket is indeed an investment in strengthening communities, in particular, creating cross-cultural experiences and a greater sense of shared values."