Cricket:Former Ireland cricket coach Adrian Birrell has been named England under-19 coach for this summer's series against Sri Lanka.
Birrell, who was Ireland coach from 2002-2007, was named in his new role by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) today. He holds an ECB Level 4 Coaching Certificate.
Ireland enjoyed considerable success under his stewardship, including reaching the Super 8’s stage at the 2007 ICC World Cup in West Indies and gaining a top 10 world ranking.
Birrell’s 25-year coaching career has also seen him work with the South African under-19 side and as head coach of Eastern Province from 1999-2002. Birrell still lives in Ireland and continues to work with Ireland A.
“I am absolutely thrilled to be given this opportunity to coach the England under-19's,” said Birrell. “The challenge of the Sri Lanka tour excites me as well as the chance to use my knowledge and experience to maximise potential and produce England players of the future.
“I look forward to working with John Abrahams and the ECB coaching staff as well meeting all the players."
“We are delighted to have secured the services of Adrian Birrell to work with the England under-19’s this summer,” added Abrahams, ECB Elite Player Development Manager. “Adrian has a wealth of coaching experience and he will be a real asset as we prepare for the challenge of Sri Lanka in July.”
Birrell’s new team will play a two-match Test series, a two-match Twenty20 series and a five-match one-day series against Sri Lanka. The first game begins on Wednesday, July 21st at Northampton .
Elsewhere the Australian cricket team is set to practice at Croke Park ahead of their One Day International against Ireland at Clontarf on June 17th.
Having seen Croke Park through the International Rules Series and international rugby matches, the Australian cricket team were keen to make use of the facilities, and will do so three days before their game against Ireland at Castle Avenue.