Simmons expects improved performance

THE Irish Cricket Union yesterday announced a 13-man squad for the Friends Provident matches in England this weekend.

The selectors have named Gary Wilson of Surrey as the wicket-keeper to replace Niall O’Brien, who is required by Northants while opening bowler Boyd Rankin and batsman Eoin Morgan also miss out against Somerset and Hampshire due to county cricket commitments.

New overseas signing Mornantau (Nantie) Hayward will join with the squad at Taunton — the former South African Test player will open the bowling in the absence of Rankin.