Ireland will host India for three T20 internationals in August while, meantime, have opted to play Bangladesh in England for their all-important ODI Super League series.
Cricket Ireland's decision to play the ODI series in Chelmsford is a strategic one, as the current weather situation in locations such as Dublin and Belfast arguably does not benefit the Irish as much as the potentially-dryer conditions in Essex.
Ireland has a chance at automatic qualification for the World Cup Super League, provided they score a 3-0 series win over Bangladesh and other results go in their favour, otherwise, they face a qualification play-off in Zimbabwe.
Cricket Ireland chief executive Warren Deutrom explained that the decision to play in Chelmsford was not taken lightly and that all plausible options were considered.
"We need to play and win the three games to qualify," Deutrom said.
"After in-depth consideration, it was decided that this approach gave us the best chance of securing automatic qualification, particularly given the fact that the matches have to be played before the World Cup Super League cut-off in mid-May.
"We need a venue where the weather patterns and playing facilities give us the best chance of mitigating any rain impact. Unfortunately, it is likely too early in the Irish season to prepare pitches to ODI standard unless we have a remarkably dry April.
"This only underscores our determination to accelerate the development of our permanent venue infrastructure, an objective which remains among my most pressing."
John Stephenson, Essex's chief executive, expressed his excitement and pride at being able to host an integral ODI series between Ireland and Bangladesh.
"We are incredibly excited to host Ireland and Bangladesh for this series of Men's ODI matches.
"The Cloud County Ground has a long-standing history of staging international sides, and we are proud to have been chosen as the host venue in an important series for both sides.
"We look forward to welcoming supporters to Chelmsford and engaging with our local communities to put on a memorable experience for everyone involved."
Ireland's T20 series against India is slated for August, while their ODI bouts with Bangladesh in Chelmsford are set for May.
