AS NATIONAL coach Mike Hendrick and his players try to put the lost opportunities of Malaysia behind them, the home supporters will get their first chance to see South Africa's captain, Hansie Cronje, in action when Ireland take on Middlesex in the Benson & Hedges Cup, at Castle Avenue on April 28th.

Cronje, embroiled in the seven-match one-day international series against Australia at the moment, has been signed up to play in Ireland's four B&H matches, for a reputed £40,000. He will make his Ireland debut alongside players who were involved in the Kuala Lumpur campaign.

Uel Graham and Allan Rutherford are not available for B&H duty because of business, while Mark Patterson's contract with Surrey has also ruled him out. Ryan Eagleson (Carrickfergus) and Kyle McCallan (Cliftonville) will be added to the team for the B&H matches.