Moreton appointed Ireland Women's coach

Cricket Ireland (CI) has confirmed the appointment of Stephen Moreton as coach of the national Women's squad. Moreton, who had first-class experience as a cricketer with Oxford UCCE, had been in the role on a temporary basis following the resignation of Paul Delany earlier in the season.

"I'm delighted to be given the opportunity to coach the Irish side," said Moreton. "I feel very lucky to have inherited such a talented group who are all extremely proud to be able to represent their country. We have a World-Cup qualification tournament in November in Bangladesh, and it is within our own hands whether or not we do well enough in this tournament to qualify for the World Twenty20 in 2012, and the one-day World Cup in 2013.

"The recent tournament [ICC Women's Challenge] gave us an indication about are position in relation to the other countries vying for qualification, and it will be a long, tough road - but one that I am excited to be involved in."

"I feel the appointment of Stephen as coach to the Irish Women's national squad, ahead of the start of 2011 season is a positive move by Cricket Ireland," enthused Ireland captain Ciara Metcalfe. "Stephen was introduced to the team back in August as interim coach and during his short time has made a big impact.

"2011 is a massive year for Irish Women's Cricket and all our attention must be centered around the World Cup Qualification tournament in November. I have no doubt with Stephen's cricket knowledge, some team commitment and hard work we can have a successful year."