Uncapped Sam Topping has replaced the most capped player in T20 International history Paul Stirling in the Irish squad after the latter sustained a knee injury.

Stirling, the skipper of the senior Ireland Men’s team has been ruled out of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka after sustaining an injury while fielding in the first innings against Australia on Wednesday, as he took a spectacular catch to dismiss Josh Inglis but landed unfavourably on his knee. 

Despite feeling okay  to bat in the second innings, shortly after the opener stepped out with Ross Adair, his knee buckled after he took a few steps during his first run, as he completed the single in severe pain and left the field.

The nature of injury and rehabilitation suggest Stirling could be out of action for a prolonged period, but a definitive timeline will be confirmed based on the reports.

His replacement, the 20-year old left-handed opener was a short flight away in Chennai at an off-season training camp with the Northern Knights training squad.

The uncapped wicketkeeper could be called straight into action and make his debut directly at the marquee event as Ben Calitz also has a knock, deeply denting the Irish batting lineup.

He holds a strong T20 record scoring 374 runs in 12 matches at an average of 34.00 striking at 134.05

Graeme West, Director of High Performance told Cricket Ireland

“Paul Stirling underwent an assessment and a scan after the Australian match which has subsequently revealed ligament damage – as such, he has been ruled out of the remainder of the T20 World Cup. Paul will shortly return home for rest and rehabilitation, ahead of the home summer.

“To replace Paul, we have called up Sam Topping, who is able to provide immediate cover as he is a short flight away in Chennai. Sam has been with the Northern Knights training squad and has been playing and training in similar conditions to Sri Lanka. The skill set he offers provides cover across a number of areas within the squad, which is important as Ben Calitz is also carrying a knock to his hand after the last match.”