Cusack ruled out of RSA Challenge

Alex Cusack has been ruled out of the RSA Challenge ODI against England next month with a back injury.

The Clontarf all-rounder has been rested from both domestic and inter-provincial duty in recent weeks, but won't be fit in time for the blue riband game.

While it's a blow for Ireland to miss a player of Cusack's calibre, coach Phil Simmons is philosophical about the news: "It's certainly disappointing for Alex to miss the game as he's an important player for us, particularly in the power-plays. However, we have strength in depth now and it'll give one of the other guys a chance to shine. We are blessed with a number of very talented all-rounders so have plenty of cover in that department."

32 year-old Cusack played a pivotal role during Ireland's 2011 World Cup win against England in Bangalore, scoring 47 as he shared a 6th wicket stand of 162 with Kevin O'Brien as Ireland pulled off the greatest shock in World Cup history.

Cusack is one of the most experienced players in the Ireland set-up, having played 138 games since his debut in 2007, taking 141 wickets and scoring 2205 runs.

With the England game now just three weeks away, Simmons admits to a real feeling of excitement in the Ireland camp ahead of the game.

"We've seen just how well the tickets have gone with over 7,000 sold already. It's going to the biggest match ever held in Ireland, and there will be a fantastic atmosphere at the new international venue at Malahide. It's my home town and I know just how much of a buzz there is around the place to have the Ashes winners coming here. It'll be a magnificent occasion, and hopefully we'll give the Irish fans another day to remember."

Tickets for the RSA Challenge ODI are still available via www.cricketireland.ie or Ticketmaster Outlets nationwide