Ireland batsman Paul Stirling joins Northamptonshire for T20 Blast

The former Middlesex man follows Kieron Pollard to the County Ground for part of the 20-over competition

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• Pollard joins Northants

Northamptonshire have confirmed Ireland's Paul Stirling will join them for part of the T20 Blast.

The 29-year-old will combine his role for the Steelbacks with his international commitments.

Starting on May 28, the Blast runs until Finals Day on August 15, during which period the Irish have white-ball matches against Bangladesh, New Zealand and Pakistan.

Stirling finished 2019 as the highest run-scorer in T20Is as Ireland secured qualification for this year's World Cup in Australia.

Ireland's elevation to Test status forced Stirling to leave Middlesex at the end of last season after 10 years at Lord's.

The announcement of Stirling's imminent arrival comes after West Indies captain Kieron Pollard was confirmed for the Blast.

“I’m thrilled to be playing for the Steelbacks in this year’s Blast," he said.

"My agent Niall O’Brien speaks very fondly of his time there and made a special mention of how superb the fans are.” Stirling said.

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“It’s a good wicket and the boundaries are small so I’m excited to entertain the people of Northampton.”

“I know a few of the guys very well and in Rosso and Cobby they have good leaders as captains at the club.

"I would like to thank David Ripley for showing faith in me and I’m hoping we can win the trophy come September.”

Northants head coach David Ripley added: “Paul brings great experience, skill, and firepower to our line-up.

"He has a reputation as a great team man and we are looking forward to welcoming him into our dressing room.

“He’ll dovetail with Pollard and be available down the road should we qualify for the quarters and beyond.

"A special thanks to Cricket Ireland for their assistance in allowing Paul to play a role for us.”

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