Gary back in Irish squad

The left arm spinner takes the place of his clubmate Kyle McCallan who announced his retirement from the international scene before Christmas.

Kidd is in the squads for the Intercontinental Cup clash with Afghanistan and the ICC World Twenty20 qualifiers.

Kidd won the last of his 15 caps back in 2008.

Delighted at his return he said: “2009 started off badly for me when I broke my wrist playing soccer and it took a lot of time to recover.

“I have been working hard with Adrian Burrell, who was looking after Ireland A, and gradually my fitness and confidence began to return.

“I have concentrated hard on the other attributes necessary to play at international level.

“I did well during the European A Championships, taking 8 for 15 against the Netherlands, and finished the season with my club in fine form, helping them to share the title.

“I’ve been given the opportunity to replace Kyle and while that’s obviously big boots to fill, I’ll be doing my best to cement my place in the squad.”

The four day match against Afghanistan is from January 23-26 in Sri Lanka.