Ireland announce squad for England ODI

Ireland have announced a 14-man squad for the one-off ODI against England in Dublin on August 25. Andre Botha, who retired following the World Cup, is the only player missing from the 15-man squad that travelled to the subcontinent.

Boyd Rankin - the Warwickshire fast bowler who made his debut for England Lions earlier this week against Sri Lanka A - will lead the Irish seam attack, which also includes Trent Johnston who has recovered from a knee niggle. Offspinner Albert van der Merwe has also recovered from an elbow injury, while Alex Cusack's concerns about his back have eased.

Ireland coach Phil Simmons was happy to have a full-strength squad going into what he called "the biggest game in our calendar this summer." "It's going to be a historic game with England playing in Dublin for the first time," Simmons said. "We're hopeful that the team will give the fans plenty to cheer about on the day.

"I'm sure England will be coming with revenge very much on their minds following the World Cup. The days of teams coming over to Ireland and taking us lightly have long gone - we've earned their respect with our performances over the past decade, and I wouldn't have it any other way."

Ireland captain William Porterfield said Ireland were looking forward to performing against an England team that has thoroughly dominated India in the ongoing Test series. "This is the game everyone in Irish cricket has been talking about and really looking forward to. It's been a sell-out for five months, and there's sure to be an incredible atmosphere at the ground. We've long shaken off the enthusiastic amateur tag - there are now eight of us plying our trade in county cricket and turning in consistent performances.

"All but two of our squad earn our living from cricket, making us virtually a full-time outfit, and our cricket has improved year on year, as our results show. This is a vastly experienced squad, with nine of the guys having played 100 times or more for us - even George (Dockrell), who just turned 19 last month, has made 46 appearances, while Paul Stirling at 21 has played 81 times.

"We're all aware we've lost the element of surprise, and also that there's now a real expectation from the cricketing public for us to perform. We're confident that we have the players in this squad to do just that, although we do realise that it won't be easy against an England team showing such great form against India."

Ireland squad: William Porterfield (capt), Alex Cusack, George Dockrell, Trent Johnston, Nigel Jones, Ed Joyce, John Mooney, Kevin O'Brien, Niall O'Brien, Boyd Rankin, Paul Stirling, Albert van der Merwe, Andrew White, Gary Wilson.