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26-May-2011 02:36:00 GMT
Pakistan in Ireland, 2011

Andrew Poynter Replaces Niall O'Brien in Ireland Squad

Belfast: Niall O'Brien has been ruled out of the Ireland squad for the one-day internationals against Pakistan at Stormont on 28 and 30 May.

O'Brien suffered a hairline fracture of his left hand after being struck by Simon Jones during his innings of 121 for Northants against Hampshire.

Andrew Poynter has come into the squad.

"It's disappointing to miss these games as I've good memories of playing Pakistan from the time we beat them in the 2007 World Cup," said O'Brien.

O'Brien was awarded the man of the match award on that occasion.

"I'll have another x-ray in 10 days and would hope to be back playing in about three weeks," added the wicketkeeper.

Ireland coach Phil Simmons described the loss of O'Brien, who sustained the injury on Friday, as "a big blow".

"Niall has been in such excellent touch this season," said Simmons.

"We're lucky in that we have Gary Wilson as a back-up keeper, and Andrew Poynter has never let us down any time he's been called upon," added the Ireland coach.

Strabane's Niall McDonnell is the only new face in the Ireland squad for the two one-day internationals.


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