Ireland's Boyd Rankin to miss England one-day internationals through injury

Ireland pace bowler Boyd Rankin has been ruled out of next month's two-match one-day international series against England with a back injury.

The 32-year-old returned to play for Ireland last year after a brief switch to England which saw him feature just once, in a Test appearance against Australia.

But Rankin, who turns out for Warwickshire, will not feature when Ireland take the field at Bristol on May 5 or at Lord's two days later as he continues to struggle with injury.

Bowler Jacob Mulder will also miss the series but Kevin O'Brien, who has recovered from a hamstring injury, and Paul Stirling, back from a finger problem, both feature in the 14-man squad.

Head coach John Bracewell hailed the upcoming series, saying: "The opportunity to play England in England and in particular at Lord's is not only historic, but a great tribute to Irish cricket and its journey.

"The 14 selected give us the best balance available to take on England in early May. It'll be another great challenge for our players, but one everyone associated with Irish cricket can't wait for."

Captain William Porterfield added: "I've no doubt there will be a massive support at both venues given both the number of Irish around Bristol and in London, never mind the amount of people travelling over.

"We're all determined to do well, and while we'll certainly respect England, there's absolutely no fear factor there. It helps that there are seven survivors from our World Cup win against them, so it shows just how much experience there is in the camp, as well as a number of younger players who have the hunger to make history again."