Aussies go to bat for Ireland

Two members of the Ireland Women squad have been given a welcome boost ahead of their opening T20 World Cup clash with New Zealand.

14 year-old Lucy O'Reilly - the youngest player in the tournament, and the second youngest international ever - was presented by Australian opener David Warner with one of his bats.

Irish wicket keeper Mary Waldron was also on the Aussie presents list. Legendary wicket-keeper Brad Haddin gave the Malahide stopper a pair of his gloves.

The magnificent gesture by the pair was warmly welcomed by Ireland Head Coach Trent Johnston: "It's given both the girls a real lift and it'll hopefully inspire them during the competition. It's a dream come true for the pair and I'd like to thank David and Brad for their generosity.

"The entire squad have been magnificent in their preparation for the tournament and I couldn't ask for any more from them in terms of commitment.

"Hopefully their hard work will pay off this coming week in terms of getting results. Qualification for the T20 World Cup has given the game a massive boost, and will only help increase the profile and grow the game back home."

Following tomorrow's game against New Zealand, Ireland face Australia (Thurs), South Africa (Sat) and Pakistan (Mon) in Group A.

All games start at the Sylhet International Stadium start at 09:30am (UK/Ireland).

The Ireland squad in full is as follows:

Isobel Joyce (capt, Merrion), Laura Delany, Amy Kenealy, Eimear Richardson, Rebecca Rolfe (Leinster), Emma Flanagan, Jennifer Gray, Lucy O'Reilly, Clare Shillington (YMCA), Cecelia Joyce, Kate McKenna, Elena Tice, Melissa Scott-Hayward (Merrion), Louise McCarthy (Pembroke), Mary Waldron (Malahide)

The Ireland fixtures are as follows:

Ireland v New Zealand, Sylhet, 25 March 
Ireland v Australia, Sylhet, 27 March 
Ireland v South Africa, Sylhet, 29 March 
Ireland v Pakistan, Sylhet, 31 March

Play-offs and final, 2-6 April