Veteran all-rounder Trent Johnston has admitted Ireland’s hopes of playing in the next World Cup could tailspin if they suffer another capitulation when they meet Pakistan in tomorrow’s second one-day international in Belfast.

Cricket Ireland have announced today that it is in discussions with former New Zealand international Hamish Marshall about both playing and coaching in the country.

Australia, South Africa and New Zealand are in discussions to set up a southern hemisphere version of the successful Twenty20 Indian Premier League.