Niall O'Brien's absence is a major setback for Ireland

Ireland and Northamptonshire wicketkeeper batsman Niall O'Brien will be out for up to six weeks because of torn ligaments in his right ankle.

The 27-year-old sustained the injury during the ICC World Twenty20 win over Bangladesh and aggravated it in the Super Eight game against Sri Lanka.

"It's a blow to miss upcoming important games, particularly when I felt in such good form with the bat," said O'Brien.

"It could be up to six weeks but I'm optimistic that I'll be back in four."

O'Brien starred for the Irish in their victory against Bangladesh, smashing 40 off 25 balls, despite being hampered by the ankle injury.

He will miss next week's Intercontinental Cup game against Kenya at Eglinton and the three ODIs against the Africans at Clontarf.

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