Ireland have been given a further World Cup boost with the news that Pakistan left-arm quick bowler Junaid Khan has been ruled out of the competition because of a hamstring injury.

The 25-year-old who played a starring role when the teams met in Belfast in 2011 has failed to recover in time after picking up the injury in training.

Khan took 4 for 12 as Ireland were skittled for just 96 in the five wicket defeat in the first match, with Saeed Ajmal, also ruled out claiming three wickets.

The pair also claimed six wickets in the second game at Stormont where Pakistan won by five wickets despite the best efforts of Paul Stirling who scored a brilliant century.

"Junaid has been found not fit to play in the World Cup," said a PCB statement.

"It is very disappointing to miss out on such a major event but I don't want to let anyone down and can't play without being 100% fit," said Khan.

"I tried my best to make a full recovery but I am still not comfortable while bowling."

Ireland face Pakistan in their final World Cup group game at Adelaide on March 15th.