Ireland’s Curtis Campher adds to his growing reputation

Playing in only his second match in Ireland colours, South Africa-born Campher hit 68 off 87 balls – notching his second half-century in a row.

He also claimed the wickets of James Vince and Tom Banton with the ball.

Speaking of his performance, captain Andrew Balbirnie said: “He looks very at home. I thought his tempo was very good, he built a nice innings and got us to a very respectable total and gave us something to bowl at.”

Campher came in with the score precariously placed at 78 for five and, like last Thursday, he became the anchor in the Irish innings as others batted around him.

“He has been such an impact player for us; I can’t really find any faults,” explained Balbirnie. “We had an intra-squad game here about a week ago – he had two innings and didn’t get out in either.

“He’s got that dogged fight; people want to play with him and bat around him –he has been exceptional.”

Harry Tector scored 28 and wicket-keeper Lorcan Tucker added 21 too. Josh Little also took three wickets in 11 balls to send English hearts racing, proving that the next generation of Irish cricketers are prepared to step up and do the job required in the years to come.

“It’s pleasing to see guys come in and step up. I’ve said it before that there’s no hiding place anymore,” said Balbirnie. “Guys that come into the squad for the first time are going to be up against the best players in the world from the off.

“The guys have stepped up, admittedly there hasn’t been a fifty or a hundred, but these things take time.

“This is the time to give these guys a chance because (they’re) so talented.”

Saturday’s result means that England take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, but Balbirnie insists that the men in green will come out fighting with 10 World Cup Super League points up for grabs in the final match tomorrow.

“It’s another opportunity to play the best team in the world in their own back yard,” said the Ireland captain.

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