1. Cricket was first played in Ireland in 1792, almost 250 years after England's first recorded game in Guildford, Surrey.
2. Whilst Gaelic football and hurling are arguably Ireland’s most popular sports, once upon a time in the mid-1850’s cricket was the nation’s favourite pastime.
3. Nine of Ireland’s cricketers ply their county trade in England.
Meet Ireland's Blarney Army
4. Along with Afghanistan, the Netherlands and 35 others, Ireland is considered an Associate nation.
It means that they aren’t Full Members like England and Australia and can’t play Test matches. But use the term ‘minnows’ with caution, as the Irish cricketers have often pointed out…
5. It’s a family affair with experienced brothers Kevin and Niall O’Brian in the squad. In addition, Sussex captain Ed Joyce’s two sisters Cecilia and Isobel represent Ireland’s Women.
6. Speaking of Ed Joyce, he may be an Irish cricket veteran, but he once featured in England’s 2006 Ashes squad.
Kevin O'Brien (left) celebrates his record-breaking century with brother Niall after beating England in 2011
7. Ireland’s most famous victory over England came in the form of Kevin O’Brien in the 2011 World Cup in Bangalore, when he struck the fastest century in the history of the tournament.
But, the Boys in Green first beat England in 1855, in a 107-run thrashing.
8. Ireland captain William Porterfield is a dedicated man; he’s led his country at every level since U13.
Come rain or shine, Ireland cricket fans are a dedicated bunch
9. The team’s popularity abroad has soared over the years, with a distinct following in none other than Bangladesh. It’s hard to say exactly why, but it seems the fans there are sympathetic to the Irish cause.
10. Ireland's travelling green fan base are nicknamed the 'Blarney Army', a term coined when huge numbers of supporters turned out in the Caribbean for the 2007 World Cup.
