The following year, 2006, was a busy one for Irish cricket as they prepared to make their World Cup debut and McCallan was a key part of their side. In the early part of the year, he played in several C & G Trophy games against various English county sides and an 2006 ICC Intercontinental Cup match against Namibia before playing his first ODI against England, also Ireland's first ODI. The year continued with the European Championship and a further Intercontinental Cup match against Scotland in Aberdeen.