Andrew Balbirnie has resigned as Ireland white-ball captain following a bitterly disappointing World Cup Qualifying campaign that saw his side finish in seventh place.

Paul Stirling will step into the role on an interim basis, taking charge of the squad for the T20 World Cup Qualifiers in Scotland later this month, as well as series against India and England.

“After much thought and consideration, I have made the decision to step down as ODI and T20I captain," said Balbirnie.

"It has been one of my great honours to lead this team over the last few years and I am hugely grateful for all the support I received on and off the pitch from the many players, coaches, Cricket Ireland and supporters of the Ireland team.

“I feel this is the right time for me, but more importantly the team. I will continue to do my best for this team and work hard to contribute towards what I hope will be a successful period over the next number of years.”

There were highs in his 89 matches in charge - wins over England in particular - but two of the biggest lows too.

A loss to Namibia in the T20 World Cup first phase, and the failure to get out of the group stages in the ongoing qualifiers.

His batting form has suffered too, looking at times a pale shadow of his former self.

Ireland Head Coach Heinrich Malan paid tribute to Balbirnie, who has agreed to remain as Test captain.

“While we completely respect Andrew’s decision to step down, for me, it is a poignant day.

"Andrew has been an exceptionally dedicated captain during his tenure, and I have greatly enjoyed working closely with him as captain.

"I know this was not a decision he took lightly, but one that he considered was best for the team. As a senior member of the squad, I very much look forward to continuing to work with him into the future.

“In terms of the captaincy going forward, Paul Stirling has agreed to take on the role on an interim basis until the end of the ODI series against England in September. Stirlo, as existing vice-captain of the squad, is someone I have also worked closely with and look forward to planning together through the next few months.”

Ireland signed off from Zimbabwe with a nervy two-wickets win over Nepal.

Scotland and the Netherlands will take on each other in Thursday with the final World Cup place on offer.

The Dutch will not only need to beat Scotland, but by a margin of 35 runs/6 overs approx.

A tall order, but as they showed against Ireland in the T20 World Cup in Sylhet back in 2014, you wouldn't back against them.