Ireland set for Jamaica tour

Ireland coach Phil Simmons is excited by the prospect of touring Jamaica next year

Ireland could take part in a reciprocal tour programme with Jamaica after the two associations held talks.

Cricket Ireland and the Jamaica Cricket Association are close to signing an agreement which would see tours take place from next year.

The plan is for Ireland’s senior men’s team to tour Jamaica in the latter part of 2009 with the women’s and under-age teams due to join the programme at a later date.

Ireland coach Phil Simmons, a former West Indies international, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for the players to experience cricket in a different climate and conditions.

“They can only become better players for the experience, and I know how much they will enjoy returning to the scene of their marvellous exploits last year (in the World Cup).”

Cricket Ireland chief executive Warren Deutrom added: “Cricket Ireland believes that reciprocal relations between our two countries will not only assist in our cricketing development, but will also help us renew great friendships created during Ireland's memorable World Cup through the Caribbean last year, above all in Jamaica, when the team tied with Zimbabwe and beat Pakistan on St Patrick's Day to seal its place in the Super Eights.”