JOHN ANDERSON will captain Ireland Over 40’s in the Triple Crown of Cricket series at Newport at the end of the month. 

The Merrion top-order batsman is one of five senior internationals in a 14-man squad that will be coached by former Ireland captain Alan Lewis. 

“Everyone is really looking forward to the tour,” said Anderson. “We had a couple of excellent matches last year against England and Wales and it’s great to see the concept building. 

“A lot of work has been done to get Veterans’ cricket going and all the players are excited and proud to be part of it and represent Ireland.” 

Pacemen Allan Eastwood and Phil Eaglestone, plus wicket-keepers Stephen Ogilby and Rory McCann are the others who have won senior honours. 

Manager Greg Molins was grateful to the squad’s many generous sponsors who had made participation in the prestigious tournament viable. 

“The tour has been made possible thanks to great sponsorship support from Bua Sportswear, Synova Captial, The Muscle Clinic, Sports Hub and LHW Financial Planning,” said Molins. 

“We also would like to thank Cricket Ireland for the use of their High-Performance training facility at Abbotstown in preparation for the tournament. It’s been great for the players to be able to practice in the excellent facilities.” 

Ireland begin the tournament against hosts Wales on Wednesday July 31st, before facing tournament favourites England who will be captained by former Kent legend Darren Stevens the following day. They finish on Friday August 2nd against familiar foes Scotland. 

IRELAND OVERS 40’S SQUAD
John Anderson (capt) (Merrion), Ethesham Ahmed (Balbriggan), Daniel Barclay (Pembroke), Patrick Byrne (The Hills), Phil Eaglestone (Waringstown), Allan Eastwood (Rush), Yogesh Kashyap (Phoenix), Richie Laurence (Phoenix), Rory McCann (Instonians), Stephen Ogilby (Chester), Johnny Robinson (Fox Lodge), Paul Ryan (Clontarf), Jonathan Tall (Malahide), Bill Whaley (Pembroke). 

Alan Lewis (Head Coach), Greg Molins (Manager), Pat Byrne (Physio @ The Muscle Clinic, Clontarf).  

FIXTURES (All at Newport CC)
Ireland v Wales (Wed. July 31st)
Ireland v England (Thurs. Aug 1st)
Ireland v Scotland (Fri. Aug 2nd)