Young signs for Sussex

The opening bowler, who was part of the recent Ireland Under 19 squad, which took part in the World Cup in New Zealand, came to the attention of the club's scouts when he took 5 for 22 against Guernsey in the U19 European Championships in Jersey last summer.

He travelled over to Sussex for a trial and was invited to a bowling camp in Dubai following the conclusion of the U19 World Cup in January.

Young took nine wickets at an average of 18.44 in the tournament, including a match winning 4 for 14 in Ireland's seven wicket win against Zimbabwe.

Young was clearly delighted at having secured a contract saying: "I got news that I was being offered a contract following my time with them in Dubai. I'm delighted, and hopefully it'll work out for me.

"I'll be going over shortly for pre season, and they'll be in touch with Ireland to see what my likely commitments will be during the summer. After they speak with them, a plan will be drawn up which will hopefully work for everybody."

There is a strong Irish connection with Sussex as Ed Joyce is currently on their books, having joined from Middlesex just before the start of the 2009 season.

Young could well be in opposition to Ireland, as a Sussex XI will be taking on Ireland A in June.