Defending champions Ireland's opening match of the Intercontinental Cup against Kenya from July 3 to 6 has been shifted to Eglinton in the north-west because the ground at Leinster province in the south-west is unavailable.

The Woodvale Road club in Eglinton was informed of the switch on Thursday morning. Club secretary John Pierce said the notice was short but the club was delighted to host the game. "Eglinton Cricket Club is very keen to host as many big games as possible and we will pull out all the stops to ensure that we do the North West justice," John Pierce told the Belfast Telegraph. "We have an excellent band of ground staff and volunteers that I know we can count on over the next week or so, although a four-day game will certainly provide us with a stern challenge."

Pierce reckoned Kenya's reputation would ensure a big crowd and he hoped the weather would not hamper preparations for the match. "All our facilities will be open to everyone and although no alcohol carry-out's will be permitted inside the ground Eglinton Cricket Club will be ready to welcome Cricket Ireland to our home next Friday." Entry to the game is free.