Cricket: Ireland likes Marshall

Ireland cricket coach Phil Simmons says former New Zealand batsman Hamish Marshall would be a welcome addition to his national side.

Cricket Ireland are in talks with Marshall after the Northern Districts veteran expressed an interest in playing and coaching in the country.

Marshall, 31, has not played for New Zealand since he refused a national contract for 2007-08 so he could play English county cricket.

The Gloucestershire middle-order batsman would be eligible to play for Ireland from April 2011, subject to ICC approval.