Ireland announce squad for ICC T20 World Cup 2022

Ireland Cricket Team [PC: Twitter]

In a significant turn of events, Ireland have announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in Australia. Andrew Balbirnie will lead the side, while veteran opener Paul Stirling will play his deputy. 

Notably, experienced spinner Andy McBrine has missed the cut as the Irish think tank has preferred Simi Singh. 

McBrine had mediocre outings in his last three T20I series, scalping just two wickets at a miserable economy of 10.75. Such poor returns have led to his ouster from the squad for the showpiece event. 

Here's what Andrew White, Chair of National Men’s Selectors, said

"One of the most pleasing aspects of our recent performances is the way the middle order has stepped up – particularly the likes of Harry Tector and George Dockrell. The label ‘finisher’ is often overused, but George’s reinvention, in particular, has been pivotal in recent successes - his experience and calmness under pressure will be indispensable as we move into competitive action,"

"One of the most considered decisions we had to make was around our spin bowling options. With George Dockrell and Gareth Delany both having an impact this summer and the variation they bring to the attack, it came down to making a choice between Simi Singh and Andy McBrine. Andy can feel very unfortunate to have missed out this time, but we believe Simi offers more variation on Australian wickets with his ability to take the ball away from both right and left handers,"

"We believe this is one of the strongest T20 squads we have sent to a World Cup and wish the team and coaching staff well for the tournament ahead."

Ireland's Squad for T20 World Cup 2022

Andrew Balbirnie (c), Paul Stirling (vice captain), Mark Adair, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Stephen Doheny, Fionn Hand, Josh Little, Barry McCarthy, Conor Olphert, Simi Singh, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Craig Young.

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