Ireland announce squad for crucial series against Bangladesh

Ireland have named their 14-member squad for the three-match home ODI series against Bangladesh to be played under the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Super League.

Ireland will host Bangladesh in May in a three-match ODI series that will be the last of the Cricket World Cup Super League games. The series will be crucial for Ireland who are still in with a chance for direct qualification if they manage to whitewash the Tigers 3-0.

Ireland are currently placed 11th in the standings with 68 points and can go level with South Africa (98 points). The hosts however will have to ensure they better their net run rate and avoid dropping penalty points so as to book a direct qualification spot for ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023.

Craig Young is back in the 14-member squad after a long injury layoff. The 32-year-old seamer was ruled out of the 2022 Men's T20 World Cup due to a recurring injury issue but returns in time for the crucial ODI series.

Conor Olphert, Matthew Humphreys and Ross Adair will be unavailable due to examination/work commitments.

Andrew White, National Men's Selector, said: "The senior squad has a more familiar look, with much of the squad having been part of the set-up in Zimbabwe (January) and Bangladesh (March) ODI fixtures. We do, however, welcome Craig Young back into the senior side after his long journey of recovery from injury.

"We are pleased to also have the services of Josh Little, who has been playing in the IPL over the last month.

"After a tough tour to Bangladesh last month, the lads will be keen to show their talent and skills in more familiar conditions – and with potential world cup qualification on the line, they will need no additional motivation to succeed."

Squad: Andrew Balbirnie (captain), Mark Adair, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Stephen Doheny, Fionn Hand, Graham Hume, Josh Little, Andy McBrine, Paul Stirling, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Craig Young.

SCHEDULE:
9 May: 1st ODI, Chelmsford
12 May: 2nd ODI, Chelmsford
14 May: 3rd ODI, Chelmsford