Dhaka, Apr 28 (IANS): Bangladesh are set to play a tri-nation One-Day series against hosts Ireland and New Zealand prior to the Champions Trophy next year.

The teams will play two matches each in the series. The dates and venues are yet to be confirmed, but the series is likely to be held in May 2017, reports bdnews24.com.

"Our discussion with Ireland is almost in the final stages. The tri-series can be a great preparation for us before the Champions Trophy," Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) chief executive Nizam Uddin Chowdhury said on Wednesday.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) Associate Member Ireland have been going at great length for a long time to get more games against full members.

"Rather than getting nine or 10 ODIs in the four years between the World Cups, we aim to play at least that number annually," said Cricket Ireland's chief executive Warren Deutrom.

This summer, however, Ireland have a packed schedule of home fixtures.

They will play two games against Sri Lanka in June, a five-match series against Afghanistan in July, followed by two more against Pakistan in August.

The Irishmen are also scheduled to take on South Africa and Australia in late September.

Bangladesh have won five and lost two One-Days against Ireland, who are ranked 11th in One-Day rankings. The teams last met in the 2011 World Cup.