Cricket
ESPNcricinfo staff 7y

'Today the dream has come true'

Cricket

The enormity of the news overwhelmed players and coaches from both nations. Afghanistan allrounder Mohammad Nabi was overcome with emotion.

As was former Ireland offspinner Kyle McCallan.

Former West Indies allrounder Phil Simmons, who coached Ireland for eight years to make them a leading Associate nation, was also overjoyed.

Ireland batsman Gary Wilson highlighted the many people whose hard work was necessary for Test status.

Kevin O'Brien, one of the longest serving members on the Ireland side, followed suit, remembering those from generations past who had contributed towards this feat.

Afghanistan fast bowler Mirwais Ashraf joined team-mate Nabi in congratulating his countrymen on a momentous day in their cricketing history.

Former Ireland cricketer Michael Halliday, who represented Ireland in the years before their matches had international status, was among the old-timers around to celebrate the occasion.

Chris Carter would barely have been ten years old when Ireland beat Pakistan in the 2007 World Cup, but he was among those who appreciated the enormity of the two sides' achievements.

The reaction to the news was overwhelmingly positive the world over.

Ireland's newly elected prime minister also had a message to share.

As did Afghanistan's chief executive.

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