Louise McCarthy added to Ireland senior performance squad

The 26-year-old pace bowler McCarthy played 56 international matches for Ireland after making her debut in 2010. Then she took a break from international cricket to complete her studies for Masters of Diagnostic Radiography in Edinburgh.

“The squad Louise left in 2017 and the one she joins now are vastly different, so we are delighted that Louise’s experience can be added to this young side," said Carrie Archer, chair of Ireland's selection committee. "She had 74 caps over seven years before her break for study, so her re-inclusion, once she became available again, was a straightforward decision for the selectors."

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“Her time in Scotland included playing cricket for Durham and at club level, so we have been monitoring her performance over the last few years and feel her addition to the squad will not only be of benefit to the team on the field, but will certainly be able to share her knowledge and experience with the younger players off the field.”

McCarthy, who was delighted to be picked, said while she had never completely ruled out playing cricket again for Ireland, her studies had become a priority.

“I was lucky enough to play for Durham last season in their 50-over and 20-over competitions, and that experience reinstated my fire for cricket," she said. "Playing with top quality players and against tough opponents week-on-week was something I realised I missed.”

“It’s a huge honour to be back in the squad. Most of the squad I would have been familiar with through playing Super 3’s over the years. Ed has been fantastic - really accommodating and approachable, so essentially, it’s been a nice environment to train in. I’m looking forward to getting back into competitive action soon.”  McCarthy added.

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Meanwhile, Ed Joyce, Ireland's head coach, who took charge of the side a little under a year ago, said he was excited by McCarthy's return saying her enthusiasm has already had a positive effect on the group.

“Louise’s addition to the senior squad is a boost for us all ahead of what will be an important period for this side. Her influence and enthusiasm has been felt by her teammates already, and she returns to the set-up understanding the challenge ahead,” Joyce said.

Ireland, who resumed training last week, were due to participate in the World Cup Qualifier in July in Sri Lanka, but that has been postponed and the ICC is yet to reschedule it. Joyce, however, said the squad were preparing well for the tournament and looking forward to playing competitive cricket.

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“The senior squad is thankfully back to training now. While it’s a modified form of training, it is important that the players are back in the nets, as we build up towards the Women’s World Cup Qualifier hopefully later this year.”

"While we look forward to returning to competitive action soon, the last week’s training has provided welcome relief and the squad has come through lockdown in relatively good shape. I’d like to acknowledge my support staff – particularly Greg Hollins our strength and conditioning coach, Jay Shelat our analyst and Beth Healy our Team Operations Manager - who have all helped keep the squad engaged, active and focussed throughout the last three months,” he concluded.