Joyce declared for England in 2005

Irish cricket chiefs are hopeful that batsman Ed Joyce may receive special dispensation to play for Ireland in the World Cup starting in February 2011.

Joyce played for England in the 2007 World Cup and by ICC rules he should be unable to switch allegiance back to the country of his birth until April 2011.

"We hope we will get permission from the ICC as Ed holds an Irish passport," said a Cricket Ireland spokesperson.

"It's no secret that Ed could play for us if he isn't playing for England."

The Dubliner opted for England in 2005, qualifying by virtue of his residency there, but has since dropped down the pecking order.

Joyce plays county cricket for Sussex and last year signed a three-year deal which will keep him at Hove until 2012.

He played in 17 one-day internationals for England, the high point being an innings of 107 at Sydney in an England victory over Australia.

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