Ireland sign Philander

Ireland have signed South African all-rounder Vernon Philander as one of their two permitted overseas players for this year's Friends Provident Trophy.

The 21-year-old is highly regarded in his native country, having just missed out on selection for the World Cup after being named in the Proteas’ preliminary squad of 30.

Philander has played 26 first class games, scoring 1046 runs at an average of 26.15, with a highest score of 168. He has also taken 71 wickets at an impressive average of 24.19.

He played for South Africa at Under 19 level and his domestic clubs include Cape Cobras and Western Province.

Irish Cricket Union vice chairman, David Williams, said: "Vernon was recommended to us many months ago, and we've been monitoring his progress very closely during the current South African season.

“He's been very impressive this year, and following discussions with Russell Adams, the Cape Cobras manager, we are delighted to have secured his signature."

Adrian Birrell will stand down as Ireland coach after the World Cup © CricketEurope

Ireland coach Adrian Birrell added: "He's a very talented player and I heard nothing but good reports about him during our recent training camp in Eastern Province.

“He can be very explosive with both bat and ball, and I'm sure Irish supporters will enjoy watching him in action."

Stephen Kirkpatrick, head of banking for Bank of Ireland Northern Ireland, the official team sponsor, said: "There's no doubt that Vernon Philander has excellent credentials, and I'm sure he will be a great asset to the team in this year's competition. It looks as if 2007 will continue to be a very exciting period in Irish cricket."

Ireland fixtures in the Friends Provident Trophy:

22 April, v Gloucestershire, Dublin
29 April, v Kent, Belfast
6 May, v Somerset, Taunton
7 May, v Hampshire, Rose Bowl
13 May, v Essex, Dublin
27 May, v Surrey, Brit Oval
28 May, v Sussex, Hove
10 June, v Middlesex, Dublin
13 June, v Glamorgan, Belfast