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Ireland’s preparations for the three-match ODI series against the West Indies have been rocked by the late withdrawal of two key players, Craig Young and Curtis Campher, due to injuries. The series, which begins on May 21 in Dublin, now presents a stern test for Ireland’s depth as two replacements join the squad.
Craig Young and Curtis Campher ruled out of the ODI leg
The Irish camp was dealt a significant setback when fast bowler Young suffered a hamstring injury during an Inter-Provincial Cup match for North West Warriors against Leinster Lightning. Young, a seasoned campaigner, was forced to leave the field mid-over, unable to complete his spell after claiming a wicket with his last delivery. His absence is particularly damaging given Ireland’s already depleted seam attack, with Mark Adair, Graham Hume, and Fionn Hand also sidelined.
Adding to the woes, fast-bowling allrounder Campher fractured a finger while batting in the nets just days before the series opener. Campher’s dynamic presence with both bat and ball has been crucial for Ireland in recent years, making his injury a major blow. The double loss leaves captain Paul Stirling with a challenging task as he leads a squad missing several first-choice bowlers.
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New faces replace Young and Campher in the Ireland squad
In response to these setbacks, Ireland have called up two fresh faces. Jordan Neill, a 19-year-old uncapped allrounder, replaces Young, while wicketkeeper-batter Stephen Doheny steps in for Campher. Neill becomes the fourth uncapped player in the squad, joining Cade Carmichael, Thomas Mayes, and Liam McCarthy, highlighting the team’s reliance on emerging talent.
Doheny, who last played ODIs against South Africa in October and recently scored a century in domestic cricket, brings both form and experience to the squad. Captain Stirling remains optimistic, viewing the situation as a chance for new players to gain valuable international exposure.
The series against the West Indies, scheduled for May 21, 23, and 25 in Dublin, will now serve as a proving ground for Ireland’s next generation. While the loss of Young and Campher is a setback, it also opens the door for young talents to step up and make their mark on the international stage.
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