SCOTT BARRON (21) was officially endorsed as Ireland's number one player yesterday in the newly-compiled Tennis Ireland rankings.

Persistent play on the ATP satellite circuit last year enabled him eventually to dethrone Owen Casey, the long standing leader.

Meanwhile, Casey has started week two of the British $50,000 satellite series at Eastbourne ink promising style scoring a convincing straight sets, 6-3 6-3 win over Matthew Coombs before beating James Davidson 7-6, 6-4 yesterday to qualify for the main draw.

Gina Niland, currently recovering from surgery on an ankle injury, is due to return to action next month. She retains her top spot from Yvonne Doyle with Claire Curran third.