Matthew Foster has been called up to the Ireland Test squad after Conor Olphert was forced to withdraw ahead of the squad’s departure for the Test Match against England from June 1-4.

Foster, 23, is a right-arm seamer who plays  for CSNI and Inter-Provincial cricket for the Northern Knights.

Initially called up ahead of the recent tour of Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, Foster had to withdraw as his rehabilitation from an early injury hadn’t been completed in time. He took 3-26 for the Northern Knights against Leinster Lightning last week in his first List A match of the new season. Foster will join up with the squad today ahead of departure to England this evening.

Olphert, who was progressing well throughout the winter and pre-season periods with an ongoing knee issue, has unfortunately experienced a recurrence of his symptoms over the last few weeks and has been unable to get it under control in time to be fit to play a Test Match despite his and the medical staff’s best efforts. He will now undergo fresh investigations as well as a period of rehabilitation.

Olphert won two caps against India in June 2022, but hasn't played since at senior level.

He struggled bowling for Bready in their Irish Cup tie against Railway Union last weekend, conceding 25 in his opening over which included a plethora of extras.

Olphert underwent a fitness test ahead of The Warriors clash with Leinster Lightning on Tuesday, but didn't make the line-up after a long discussion with the physios.

The fixture schedule is:

26-28 May: Essex v Ireland – 1st Class Match 
1-4 June: England v Ireland – Test Match 
 
The squad is:
Andrew Balbirnie (Capt), Mark Adair, Curtis Campher, George Dockrell, Matthew Foster, Fionn Hand, Graham Hume, Tom Mayes, Andrew McBrine, James McCollum, PJ Moor, Paul Stirling, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Craig Young.