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The real joy is in playing for Ireland
After featuring in England's disastrous ICC World Cup campaign at the Caribbean in 2007, Ed Joyce is wearing Ireland colours, using the International Cricket Council's special dispensation that allows him to represent the country of his birth.
After featuring in England's disastrous ICC World Cup campaign at the Caribbean in 2007, Ed Joyce is wearing Ireland colours, using the International Cricket Council's special dispensation that allows him to represent the country of his birth.
The 32-year-old No. 3 batsman, who will make his Ireland debut on Friday, has a match-winning century as England opener against Australia in Sydney in 2006-07.
He comes from a family of eight siblings — brothers Augustine and Dominick as well as twin sisters Isobel and Cecelia have played cricket for Ireland.
Ed told Hindustan Times why he chose to leave England even after reviving his career with county side Sussex.
What do you bring to this Ireland side?
Probably a lot of experience and a lot of runs. I have not played for Ireland for the last five years. It's good to be back to play for the country you are born in. Since I have been to the subcontinent with England A, and also with the national side, I hope to play my part.
Why did you leave England?
I have just played 17 ODIs for England. When I shifted to England, playing Test cricket was my priority. The ambition was never actually achieved. I never got to that level.
What went wrong?
I had adapted well to the ODIs and had some moments of success. The last World Cup was a disaster not only for me but also for a few other players. I think probably the timing was not right for me to join England. At that time, England were not very good in ODIs.
