Irish wicketkeeper-batter Lorcan Tucker emphasized the advantages of participating in overseas leagues and gaining insights from top-tier players worldwide.
Ireland and Pakistan, placed in Group A for the forthcoming T20 World Cup, are set to engage in a three-game T20I series commencing on May 10th.
Reflecting on his experience in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and interacting with members of the Pakistani squad, Tucker expressed admiration for their skills and character.
“I had a brief stint with Lahore Qalandars in the PSL this year and got to know a few of their lads who are in this squad. All great players and lovely men so will be nice to welcome them here. We’ve got them now and in Florida in a few weeks time though so things won’t be too cosy for sure,” Tucker said.
Regarding the upcoming T20 World Cup in the United States, Tucker considered it a career highlight for himself and his teammates.
“The US is a great place to play cricket. Things are really moving along quickly over there and they’re building a great system for the future. Playing in New York is something for all of us to cherish as cricketers and will definitely be one of the highlights of my careers,” he said.
Tucker acknowledged the familiarity with their Group Stage opponents but stressed the importance of focusing on each moment in the tournament.
“We’ve played against each of our Group Stage opponents a bit in the recent past and have had some success against them, but as the cricketing proverb goes: “it’s the next ball that matters”, so I think it’s fair to say that will be both mine and the team’s mindsets going into the tournament,” he added.
Schedule of Ireland vs Pakistan:
May 10: First T20I at Clontarf
May 12: Second T20I at Clontarf
May 14: Third T20I at Clontarf