Irish coach Adi Birrell seeking confidence boost before Cup

Ireland had an easy seven-wicket victory over a Duke of Arundel XI in Kent on Monday at the start of their tour to south-east England.

The Irish boys bowled out the Duke's side for a paltry 61 and rattled off the runs with 33 of their allotted 50 overs remaining.

Ireland got off to the perfect start with Ryan Eagleson grabbing a wicket with his first ball following his return after a two-year break on the sidelines with injury.

The Carrick bowler took two wickets while Paul Mooney grabbed three for 22 in an impressive spell with Andre Botha chipping in with two for six.

Skipper Jason Molins hit 24 as Ireland scored 65 for three in just over 16 overs.

Ireland should have a tougher assignment on Tuesday when they face MCC at Lord's.

Ireland coach Adi Birrell is looking for a further boost before next month's Inter Continental Cup qualifier against Denmark.