Simmons hails Botha return

Ireland coach Phil Simmons insists the return of key all-rounder Andre Botha has given his side a new lease of life.

The 31-year-old - one of Ireland's stars of the World Cup campaign - has missed the majority of the summer with an elbow injury.

Botha hit 42 in Ireland's 221 for seven before grabbing key three wickets, including Scotland skipper Ryan Watson for 83, to help his side win by 22 runs in Sunday's final match of the Quadrangular Series.

And Simmons said: ‘It's been a huge boost to have Andre back in the squad and he's proved this week what a big player he is.

‘We really missed him at the start of the summer when we gave a lot of younger lads the chance.

‘He always gets through his overs efficiently and his batting gives us options at the top of the order. I hope his fitness problems are behind him and he can continue to play good cricket with us.’