Irish irritated about Poms’ captain Morgan
Ireland have expressed their frustration that Eoin Morgan will captain England in this World Cup, which starts in Australia and New Zealand on Saturday.
Morgan made his debut for Ireland in ODI cricket in 2006, and after securing Ireland's qualification for the 2011 World Cup, in April 2009, he was immediately called up by England, thereby denying Ireland the chances to pick him in the World T20 and beyond.
Having spent huge sums on developing Morgan as a young cricketer, Ireland had reason to feel aggrieved, but it was a reflection of the problems Ireland will face until they are afforded Test status and regular ODIs against Full Members.
Two Irish players, batsman Ed Joyce and fast bowler Boyd Rankin, have gone on to represent England in recent years, however, Joyce has now come back to play for his home nation.
Ireland chief selector Alan Lewis, speaking to Slog Sweep podcast said: "I look at the England set up and over the last 10 years, three people from this little island where cricket is the fourth or fifth sport are playing for a country whose national sport is cricket.
"It is a wee bit irritating to think where we could be if Eoin and Boyd were available; obviously we've got Ed back now.
"I wouldn't want to deprive Eoin Morgan the opportunity with the ability he has, I'd want to play at the top level, and in honesty every Irish supporter would wish him well, it's a great story, but it's a great frustration.
"To get our players back, that's part of the next step."
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