Ireland wicket-keeper batsman Gary Wilson was delighted to get the opportunity to play Test cricket at iconic Lord’s cricket ground when they will take on the hosts England in a one-off Test on 24th July.
While William Porterfield-led Ireland will play their maiden Test at the Home of Cricket -Lord’s on Wednesday, Wilson urged his teammates to not lose their sight on playing good cricket here by overwhelming with the beauty of one of the most famous cricket grounds across the globe.
Since they were awarded the Full Membership status of the International Cricket Council two years ago, Ireland has played only two Tests – both they lost to Afghanistan and Pakistan and Wilson said the visitors must focus on giving their best against the newly-crowned World Cup winners England.
Wilson told media on Sunday, 21st July, at Lord’s, “In my generation, I don't think any of us expected to be playing a Test match at Lord's, so to have the opportunity is great. But we mustn't lose sight of the fact that we have to come here and perform as well. I mean that's what it is about, it's not just turning up and having all the fanfare around Lord's.”
The 33-year-old continued, “We have to try and put in a good performance against a very good England side, but we've got some good players as well and we're confident we can do that.”
Wilson also admitted that the conditions could play a role in the outcome of their Lord's Test debut. He signed off by saying, “It might have an impact on the wicket in that it might dry it out as the game goes on. I guess we'd rather have good weather than poor rainy weather!”
(With AFP Inputs)
