England cricketers to return to Malahide next year

Cricket Ireland will welcome England back to Malahide for an ODI in 2015, after the hugely succesful meeting between the two sides in 2013 attracted 10,000 to the Dublin venue.

Led by Irishman Eoin Morgan, England recorded a six-wicket victory in September last year. Next year's match will be held on May 8th, with Australia scheduled to face Ireland in Stormont - host to England, West Indies, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Australia in recent years - on August 27th.

"It's a fantastic boost for Irish cricket to have these two high profile clashes," said Ireland coach Phil Simmons. "We're always looking to test ourselves against top quality opposition, and they don't come much bigger than England and Australia.

"Next year is shaping up to be the most exciting in Irish cricketing history. We've got the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, these high profile ODI's and we're also co-hosting the ICC World Twenty20 qualifiers along with Scotland. That's a fantastic line-up of cricketing action, and I'm sure there will be a lot of support for these games," added Simmons.

Ireland captain William Porterfield added: "There's a real buzz around the squad with everyone really looking forward to next year. The fact that we've these ODI's too has given everyone a real boost.

“Malahide obviously holds special memories for me with my hundred there against England last year. It was one of the highlights of my career, and it was made extra special by the fact it was in front of a sell-out crowd.

“I’m sure that there will be huge crowds at both games, and given the fact that it’s an Ashes year next summer, I’d expect a large number of travelling supporters too, giving the games an incredible atmosphere in both Dublin and Belfast.”