Simmons opts for continuity as Dockrell ruled out

IRELAND coach Philo Simmons has kept faith with the squad which played in the ICC World T20 last month when naming his 13-man squad for the RSA Challenge ODI against Australia at Clontarf on June 17.

The only players missing from the T20 in the West Indies are all-rounder Nigel Jones, and 17-year-old Leinster left arm spinner George Dockrell.

Simmons admitted the unavailability of Dockrell is a big blow to the side: “It’s a pity that George can’t make the game, but he has exams which are obviously important to his future.

“He’d been bowling really well and settled in superbly to international cricket. That has helped us offset the retirement of Kyle McCallan, and the injuries to Regan West.”

Simmons was relishing theopportunity to pit his wits against the current world champions: “It’s a chance for the players to showcase their talents against the best in the business.

“We’re playing on home soil, infamiliar conditions, and with thebacking of our home fans. We may have lost the surprise factor against the Full Member teams in the past few years, but we have certainly gained their respect.

No-one treats us lightly any more, as they know if their game drops, we are ready to pounce.”

Tickets for the game can be purchased via Ticketmaster www.ticketmaster.ie

Ireland squad: W Porterfield, capt (Gloucestershire), T Johnston (Railway U), A Botha (North Cnty), P Connell (North Down), A Cusack (Clontarf), G Kidd (Waringstown), J Mooney (North County), K O’Brien (Railway Union), N O’Brien (Northants), B Rankin (Warwickshire), P Stirling (Middlesex), A White (Instonians), G Wilson (Surrey)