Richardson makes Ireland cut

Allrounder Eddie Richardson has been included in the Ireland squad ahead of their ODI against England in Malahide on September 3.

Richardson, 23, the only new face in the 13-man squad, has worked his way through Ireland's age-group levels, and was delighted at earning his first senior call-up.

"I've worked really hard on my game, especially the last two years and it's fantastic that the selectors have rewarded this with senior recognition," Richardson said. "The difference this season is that I've been scoring runs as well as taking wickets. I've been bowling decently this past few years but to get into the Ireland team you have to be doing both, as it's got so many talented all-rounders."

Richardson, a cousin of Ireland international John Mooney, has been in prolific form both domestically with North County as well as at Inter-Provincial level with Leinster Lightning. Phil Simmons, the Ireland coach, believed that the allrounder was fully deserving of his inclusion in the side.

"He's been very consistent at all levels and the selectors were especially impressed by his form in the RSA Inter-Provincial Series," Simmons said. "His volume of runs and wickets has warranted selection. Eddie is a great advertisement for all Irish youngsters as he's shown that if you put in the hard yards there will be rewards."

The squad will be led by William Porterfield and contains plenty of experienced players, including Trent Johnston and the O'Brien brothers.

Squad: William Porterfield (capt), George Dockrell, Trent Johnston, Ed Joyce , John Mooney, Tim Murtagh, Kevin O'Brien, Niall O'Brien(wk), Eddie Richardson, Max Sorensen, Paul Stirling, Andrew White, Gary Wilson.