Ireland has unveiled its 15-member squad for the upcoming 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup qualifier in Zimbabwe. Andrew Balbirnie will lead the team in Group B, where they’ll compete against Oman, Sri Lanka, Scotland, and the United Arab Emirates. A notable absence from the squad is Stephen Doheny, who will be contending for one of the two available spots in the 10-team qualifier for the World Cup in India later this year. Ireland World Cup Squad.
Andrew White, the national men’s selector, explained the selection process: “We’re making strategic choices based on factors such as form, tactical considerations, and squad suitability for the expected playing conditions. As the tournament progresses, we anticipate encountering used pitches, making players like Ben White valuable assets.” Ireland World Cup Squad.
He continued, “Our squad boasts a formidable seam attack with Adair, Little, Young, McCarthy, Hume, and Campher. PJ Moor’s experience in Zimbabwean conditions and his ability to bat across various positions from one to seven provide excellent versatility.” Ireland World Cup Squad.
White also mentioned the tough decision to leave out Stephen Doheny: “We hold Stephen Doheny in high regard and intend to invest in his development. However, we believe it’s the right time for him to step back temporarily and work on specific technical aspects of his game at the domestic level.”
In another development, Matthew Foster, an uncapped seamer, has been called up to replace the injured Conor Olphert for the upcoming one-off Test against England at Lord’s from June 1st to 3rd.
Read More:
Team Ireland List for ICC World Cup 2023
Ireland’s Squad for the 2023 Cricket World Cup Qualifier. In preparation for the 2023 Cricket World Cup Qualifier set to take place in Zimbabwe, Ireland has assembled a formidable squad under the captaincy of Andrew Balbirnie. This event serves as a critical stepping stone, with only two teams out of ten, including cricketing giants West Indies and Sri Lanka, earning the coveted spots for the main tournament in India later in the year. Ireland World Cup Squad.
The Irish squad boasts a deep pool of pacers, showcasing their intent to dominate with the ball. Key players in this department include Mark Adair, Josh Little, Craig Young, Barry McCarthy, Graham Hume, and Curtis Campher. However, recognizing the unique conditions they might face, the selectors have also made a strategic move by including Ben White, who recently made his Test debut in Bangladesh. Andrew White, the selector for the Ireland men’s team, shed light on the squad composition and their tactical approach, emphasizing the need to adapt to various scenarios during the tournament.
“As we approach these crucial months, we must carefully consider our squad’s tactical needs, the form of our players, and how our team composition can best suit the conditions likely to prevail,” White explained. “In the latter stages of the tournament, for example, we anticipate playing on used pitches. This is where we believe Ben White’s skill set becomes invaluable.” However, White cautioned against getting too ahead of themselves and urged the team to focus on a strong start to the tournament. Ireland World Cup Squad.
“Before we look too far ahead, our immediate focus must be on a strong start. We’ve assembled what we believe to be our best possible squad to meet this challenge. Our pace attack, featuring Adair, Little, Young, McCarthy, Hume, and Campher, is a testament to our commitment to fielding a formidable bowling lineup. Additionally, PJ Moor brings his experience in Zimbabwean conditions and his versatility as a batsman who can adapt to any position in the lineup,” White elaborated. It’s worth noting that Moor, who has previously played Test cricket for Ireland following his move from Zimbabwe, is yet to make his mark in ODIs, with his last international fifty-over match dating back to 2019 when he represented Zimbabwe. One notable omission from the squad is Stephen Doheny, who had recently featured in the series against Zimbabwe earlier in the year. White justified this decision by emphasizing the demanding nature of qualifier events and the need for a balance between talent, current form, and experience.
“Qualifier events are incredibly challenging and at times, ruthless competitions. Striking the right balance between talent, form, and experience is absolutely crucial,” White emphasized. “We are confident that we have struck that balance, and we trust that Irish supporters will rally behind our players and staff as they embark on their quest for World Cup qualification.”
In summary, Ireland has assembled a potent squad for the 2023 Cricket World Cup Qualifier, combining an impressive pace attack with the strategic inclusion of Ben White to adapt to varying pitch conditions. With a focus on a strong start and a well-balanced team, they are determined to secure one of the coveted spots for the main event in India, with the unwavering support of their loyal fans. The batting lineup for Ireland’s cricket squad consists of several key players. Andrew Balbirnie, the team’s captain, is a top-order batsman known for his right-handed batting style and right-arm off-break bowling. Stephen Doheny, an opening batsman, brings his right-handed batting skills to the team. Harry Tector, a middle-order batsman, also provides off-spin bowling with his right hand. Lorcan Tucker, who serves as the team’s wicketkeeper, contributes as a right-handed batsman. These batters bring a diverse set of skills to the team, aiming to provide a strong foundation in their matches. Despite facing challenges in the previous year, there is a sense of improved optimism within the Ireland cricket camp as they gear up for their upcoming campaign. In 2021, the team underwent a transition as two generations of players attempted to blend together. However, the younger generation is gradually taking ownership of the side. Despite the retirement of Kevin O’Brien, Ireland has managed to construct a batting lineup that can effectively exploit the Powerplay overs and accelerate during the middle phase of their innings, positioning them well against their First Round opponents in terms of firepower.
Notable players like Gareth Delany, Harry Tector, and wicketkeeper Lorcan Tucker have been delivering consistent performances in both franchise and international cricket. Tucker’s form has been impressive enough to maintain his place in the team ahead of former Zimbabwe international PJ Moor, who was eligible for selection. On the bowling front, Ireland faces the challenge of replacing the injured Craig Young, who had to withdraw from the squad after their arrival in Australia. Graham Hume steps in to fill Young’s shoes, with David Delany, who is already based in Melbourne, not being included. Hume is set to join the team in time for warm-up matches against West Indies and Namibia. Despite facing stiff competition in more than 20 T20Is played this year, Ireland’s rigorous preparation cannot be questioned, even though they have encountered setbacks with a record of just three wins in 12 matches against Full Member teams.
