ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 Group B: England v Ireland
Venue: Bangalore Date: Wednesday, 2 March (0900 GMT)
Tournament dates: 19 February-2 April Venues: India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh
Coverage: Highlights on BBC TV (see listings), Red Button & BBC Sport website at 2200 GMT every day (UK users only); Live Test Match Special commentary (BBC 5 live sports extra, online, some games also on BBC Radio 4 LW) and live text commentary on England matches and selected others; Live on Sky Sports

Skipper Porterfield is the centre of attention

Players and coaching staff from the Ireland cricket team have been busy in a Bangalore hair salon to raise awareness for the Irish Cancer Society.

The developments are part of a Shave or Dye campaign and have taken place ahead of Ireland's World Cup matches against England on Wednesday and co-hosts India on Sunday.

Skipper William Porterfield led the way with a funky cut and dye, while coach Phil Simmons had his head shaved and is also sporting a blue goatee.

"We thought about the timing of the campaign and knew that just before the England and India games would generate the most publicity," said Porterfield.

"It's a small sacrifice for us and to be truthful the lads really enjoy it. It's great for team spirit and bonding with everyone getting involved."

Andre Botha and John Mooney both had their heads shaved, while Boyd Rankin and brothers Niall and Kevin O'Brien all opted to have their hair dyed.

Coach Simmons joined in the fun

Ed Joyce, a member of the England team during the 2007 World Cup, is set to face his former side at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Banglaore with a natty cut and dye.

The Ireland team, who lost to Bangladesh by 27 runs in their opening fixture at the World Cup, looked in relaxed mood as they visited the Bangalore salon.

And the new styles are sure to catch the eye during their two high-profile matches as they look to upset the form book.

Former skipper Trent Johnston said after his close shave: "It's a fantastic charity and we're only too glad to lend our support to the Irish Cancer Society. Hopefully by doing this we will raise both awareness and some much-needed funds."

The Shave and Dye campaign is hoping to raise 1m euros and is almost halfway towards achieving its target.

Join Jonathan Agnew and Geoffrey Boycott for the TMS podcast

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version