Connell, Jones return to Ireland squad

Seamer Peter Connell has been recalled to the Ireland XI squad after two years for three one-dayers against South Africa A, alongside allrounder Nigel Jones, Ireland Cricket has confirmed. Presently playing the second of the two four-day games against the South Africans, the side will play four 20-over games after the 50-over matches that get underway on August 19.

Connell hasn't played much competitive cricket of late. He last represented his national side in a one-dayer against Australia in their tour of Ireland in June, 2010, his 13th ODI. He is one of only three bowlers to have taken a hat-trick for Ireland.

"[Connell] is a proven wicket-taker at international level with Ireland and when he gets it right he can be a handful for any opposition," Ireland coach Phil Simmons said.

Jones, on the other hand, was part of the squad that won the World T20 Qualifier in March this year, but he hasn't played any ODIs since last August against England.

Recovering from a knee injury, his will be a useful inclusion to the side as a limited-overs specialist, according to Simmons.

The squad: Kevin O'Brien (captain), John Anderson, Andrew Balbirnie, Peter Connell, Trent Johnston, Nigel Jones, Rory McCann (wkt), Andrew Poynter, James Shannon, Max Sorensen, Stuart Thompson, Albert van der Merwe, Andrew White