National coach Phil Simmons has compared Paul Stirling to the big hitters of world cricket after the opening batsman led Ireland to the World Twenty20 in Sri Lanka in September. Related Stories Roger Federer progress despite fan's 'out' shout Belfast Giants boss lands new deal after title victory Below par but Djokovic still sweeps aside Troicki

National coach Phil Simmons has compared Paul Stirling to the big hitters of world cricket after the opening batsman led Ireland to the World Twenty20 in Sri Lanka in September. Related Stories Belfast Giants boss lands new deal after title victory

Sachin Tendulkar, who will turn 39 next month, is in no hurry to retire and the prolific Indian batsman has refused to rule himself out of the 2015 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Sachin Tendulkar, who will turn 39 next month, is in no hurry to retire and the prolific Indian batsman has refused to rule himself out of the 2015 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Ireland cricket’s newest star Paul Stirling has vowed to turn down any approach from England before the ICC World Twenty in September.

Ireland cricket’s newest star Paul Stirling has vowed to turn down any approach from England before the ICC World Twenty in September.

Mahele Jayawardene’s superb unbeaten 168 held Sri Lanka together as they reached 289-8 on day one of the first Test against England.

England captain Andrew Strauss has confirmed seamer Stuart Broad will be fit for the first Test with Sri Lanka in Galle on Monday.

England captain Andrew Strauss has confirmed seamer Stuart Broad will be fit for the first Test with Sri Lanka in Galle on Monday.

Ireland captain William Porterfield said his side's qualification for September's ICC World Twenty20 tournament proved they merited a place at cricket's top table.