Malahide fills up for cricket showdown

MALAHIDE is set to make a bit of sporting history next month.

Advanced ticket sales have confirmed that the RSA Challenge match between Ireland and England on September 3 will be played in front of the biggest crowd ever to attend a cricket match in Ireland.

Ticket sales for the official one-day international are already pushing the two-thirds mark.

Around 10,000 cricket fans are expected to descend on North Dublin for the first major match to be played at Ireland’s newest international venue.

Cricket Ireland is calling on the Irish public to get their tickets now in advance to guarantee their place at what is sure to be a memorable day for Irish sport.

Veteran Trent Johnston is looking to give the Irish public one more glory day before time is called on his international career ahead of Ireland’s landmark fixture.

The 39 year-old, who last month announced that he’s hanging up his boots at the end of 2013, feels that a major scalp on Irish soil is long overdue.

“It’s been disappointing that we haven’t beaten a Full Member in Dublin yet, but I know just how determined the team is to rectify that situation,

? he said.

“I made my debut in 2004 when we had a great win over Surrey, but despite being in great positions a few times – not least against England, as well as Australia and Pakistan – we haven’t managed to get over the finishing line.

?

Johnston said it’s all set up to be a fantastic occasion with 10,000 fans packed into the ground.

“There’s bound to be a special atmosphere and it’d be special to give the fans a winning start at the new stadium,

? he added.

Irish coach Phil Simmons is confident that the highly charged atmosphere will inspire his team to further glory as they look to recreate the famous result when Ireland beat England at the 2011 Cricket World Cup.

“It’ll be a cause for double celebration as we’ve confirmed our qualification for the 2015 World Cup and England have held onto the Ashes,

? he said.

“There’s always an extra edge when Ireland play England in any sport and cricket is no exception.

?

Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.cricketireland.ie or at TicketMaster outlets nationwide.