World Cup team profile: Ireland
World Cup history
This will be Ireland's third World Cup, having appeared in the last two editions. Their debut in 2007 included upsetting Pakistan, having bowled them out for only 132, and also a hammering of Bangladesh. Four years later, they tipped up England in a remarkable run-chase of 328.
They have left a mark on both tournaments, proved that on their day they can be a serious danger, and have earned the right to be respected.
Best finish: Made the Super 8 stage of the 2007 World Cup.
Squad: William Porterfield (Capt), Andrew Balbirnie, Peter Chase, Alex Cusack, George Dockrell, Ed Joyce, Andrew McBrine, John Mooney, Kevin O'Brien, Niall O'Brien (wkt), Paul Stirling, Max Sorensen, Stuart Thompson, Gary Wilson, Craig Young
Key Batsman: Ed Joyce. In the form of his life after scoring 1398 runs at 66.57 in the 2014 County Championship, with seven centuries. Joyce is a calm, experienced head who has averaged 44.38 in ODIs for Ireland since the start of 2012 – including a century against Pakistan.
Key Bowler: The 22 year-old leaft-arm spinner George Dockrell is already an experienced 22-year-old having played 42 ODIs and three full seasons at Somerset. Dockrell is vital to Ireland's chances with his left-arm spin the main variation in an attack containing right-arm seamers, most of them at medium pace. He has an 51 ODI wickets.
Drinks carrier: The 21 right-arm seamer Peter Chase is probably going with for the experience. He has only played in one previous ODI.
Kit colour: Light Green
Injury concerns: Bowler Tim Murtagh has already pulled out of the squad with injury and was replaced by Max Sorensen. No fresh injury concerns within the camp.
Fixtures: February 16, v West Indies, Nelson, February 25, v UAE, Brisbane, March 3, v South Africa, Canberra, March 7, v Zimbabwe, Hobart, March 10, v India, Hamilton, March 15, v Pakistan, Adelaide
Latest
-
NewsSteve Smith debate has been “blown up” says England all-rounder Chris Woakes
The former Australia captain was filmed scratching at the batting crease while fielding against India.
-
NewsMoeen Ali coronavirus quarantine extended after mild symptoms
The England all-rounder is now unlikely to feature in England’s Test series in Sri Lanka.
-
NewsAustralia go on the defensive over Steve Smith scuffing saga
Australia have closed ranks around Steve Smith, who is upset over being painted as a villain following the drawn third Test against India.
-
NewsOn This Day in 1996: Dickie Bird announces retirement from umpiring
Bird umpired in 66 Tests and 69 one-day internationals.
-
NewsDan Lawrence adamant he will stick to ‘unique’ batting technique in Test arena
The 23-year-old should make his Test debut when England start their two-match series against Sri Lanka.
-
NewsSteve Smith criticised for appearing to scuff Rishabh Pant’s guard in third Test
Former Australia captain Steve Smith was branded “childish” after an incident during the final day of their drawn third Test against India
-
NewsTim Paine admits he let the Australian bowlers down
Australia captain Tim Paine believes he was at least partially to blame for his side failing to bowl India.
-
NewsTesting times on tour in Sri Lanka – the life of an international cricketer
Gloucestershire’s James Bracey is on his first overseas tour with England. Here he writes about his experiences so far in Sri Lanka.
-
NewsIndia salvage unlikely draw in third Test against Australia
India salvaged an unlikely draw as the third Test against Australia reached a thrilling finale.
-
NewsChris Silverwood backs ‘fighter’ Dan Lawrence to make step up to Test cricket
The Essex batsmen is in line for an England Test debut against Sri Lanka on Thursday.