Cricket: `Irish' Waugh to take on Australia

STEVE WAUGH, Australia's Test vice-captain, has agreed to play for Ireland this summer against his own compatriots. Waugh, who leads the Aussies' one-day side, will be involved in six matches against Australia A in August.

"It will be an interesting experience to wear an Irish sweater against Australia A," said Waugh, who is on tour in India. "I know my fellow countrymen will be keen to do well against me and I can assure them I will be keen to do well against them."

Waugh's visit to Ireland is part of the International Cricket Council's development programme and the New South Wales batsman will also undertake a number of coaching and promotional engagements.

Hansie Cronje, South Africa's captain, visited Ireland last season and Gavin Craig, chairman of the Irish Cricket Union, said: "This is another feather in the cap of Irish cricket. Hansie Cronje did wonders in raising the profile of the game last season and now we have Steve Waugh."

Waugh's six matches comprise five one-dayers and one three-day game, which will be played at Rathmines in the Republic.