The wait is nearly over – 19 months after we qualified for the World Cup, the real work begins. Our campaign sees us face Zimbabwe, a game in which we harbour genuine aspirations of a victory, then Pakistan on St Patrick's Day, and finally, the hosts West Indies, who we have beaten three times in our history.

Along the way, there has been a lot of hard work, with many gruelling days and nights. I took leave from my job in the Pensions Department of the Civil Service, thanks to generous funding by the Sports Council in Northern Ireland. I was then enrolled in the Sports Institute in Jordanstown, along with the rest of the Northern based players, under the guidance of Phil Moreland and Dave Mesini.

Phil had previously done some work with Queensland Cricket, which proved a great benefit to everyone, as he knew exactly what it took to put cricketers through a training program, and tailored it to suit everyone's specific needs. We trained on a Tuesday and Thursday, right up to Christmas.

In early January, the team became effectively full-time cricketers, with our training camp in South Africa, the World Cricket League in Kenya, and the InterContinental Cup fixture in Abu Dhabi. The fact we were able to concentrate solely on cricket for 3 months, having been put on contracts by the Irish Cricket Union, was very exciting, and made everyone feel like proper full time players.

We also trained hard on our own, swimming, cycling and running. The back up support received was first class, with dietary and nutritional advice, as well as having Iain Knox, our physio, at our disposal. Iain carried out our obligatory fitness tests, which demand a high standard from us all, but everyone knows what is required, and haven't been found wanting. The days of people just turning up and playing in Irish cricket are long gone. You've got to put the hard graft in to give yourself the chance to be competitive. Fitness and fielding are two areas where Associate teams can compete with the Test nations. Individuals have all taken responsibility, and you can have no excuses if you lose your place in the squad due to a lack of fitness.

It's been a great help to me that during all the preparation for the tournament, I've been accompanied on my travels by two fellow players from County Tyrone. Both Boyd Rankin and William Porterfield are in the squad on merit, having come through the ranks, and impressed National Coach Adrian Birrell, with their performances at the Under 19 World Cup. The North West representation in the Ireland set up has fluctuated throughout my 11 years involvement, but now thankfully, the good times are back.

Although William has been out of the North West scene for a few years, he's still very much a Donemana man at heart. He's sought other avenues to play and improve his game. I don't think people here will recognise him – he's come a long way from the slight, fresh faced 15 year old who burst on the local scene with that winning innings in the Irish Senior Cup final. There's no doubt he suffered a little with the usual second season syndrome, but everyone could recognise that he had undoubted talent.

He's played in England with MCC Young cricketers, and last season played in Leinster, and has cemented his place in the Ireland team. He's without a doubt, one of the hardest working cricketers I've ever come across. I've seen a lot of talent, but if anyone deserves the success that they're achieving, it's certainly William. He puts in the hours in both the gym and the nets, and it's paid dividends. It's no fluke he's averaging over fifty for Ireland – it's the result of a lot of effort on his part, and I hope it continues.

As for Boyd, he's been given a full time contract with Derbyshire, and he certainly brings something different to the team with his height, from which he is able to generate pace and bounce. Working side by side with him, I've seen how much effort he's put in to make his body stronger, which should help him stay injury free. I was at short leg for his spell of bowling against the UAE in Abu Dhabi, when he took 4-56, and the thud of the ball into the wicket keepers gloves, showed he's upped his pace. The look in the batters' eyes out there, showed they clearly weren't relishing it.

Hopefully his career will continue to progress, and he'll make a breakthrough with Derbyshire this season.

There'll be no shortage of support for the team out in Jamaica, and I'm buoyed by the fact that my wife, Ciara, my parents and brother will be in attendance, along with quite a few members from Strabane, including Joe Doherty, Terence Patton and John Beattie. It's always god to have support, especially personal support. I've been around the world with Ireland, and in my absence friends and relatives have suffered, so I'd like to think of this as a reward for them, for their patience, encouragement, and support. Hopefully they will all enjoy it and come back with some fantastic memories.

From a personal perspective, I'm hoping obviously to score a few runs, but whatever impact I can make, even a small contribution, if it helps the team to a win or two, I'll be delighted.

It's been an incredible week for Irish cricket, with no shortage of drama. The scriptwriters couldn't have dreamt up two better scenarios for tension and excitement. The team have been inundated with messages of support from back home where cricket has dominated the sports pages, after our thrilling last ball tie with Zimbabwe, and the gripping nail biter against the mighty Pakistan.

What has been coming through those messages is the fact that a large number of those well wishers haven't previously been following cricket, but the tournament has gripped their imagination, and World Cup fever is spreading.

The Irish support in Jamaica has been enthusiastic, considerable and colourful. The West Indians have adopted us as their second favourite team, and the local media have been more than supportive, saying that the team and the fans have brought the competition to life, and we are the epitomy of what sport is all about.

The death of Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer on Sunday, cast a shadow over our famous win, and the news came as a terrible shock to all the squad. Bob was very much a champion of the Associate countries cause, and was full of praise for the Irish team, congratulating everyone after we beat them.

Not everyone has been so complimentary about the inclusion of the non Test nations in the Cup. Former Test players such as Michael Holding, Mike Atherton and Courtney Walsh have been very scathing in their comments. It was a great feeling to prove them wrong, and strike a blow for all the Associates.

To the games themselves, and there's no doubt we weren't at our best in the Zimbabwe game. We lost a crucial toss, and at 89 for 5, were deep in trouble. Jeremy Bray, who plays for Eglinton in the North West, rescued it for us with a magnificent, chanceless 115. He shared in vital partnerships with Eoin Morgan, Andrew White, Trent Johnston, and David Langford-Smith, to get us to 221, just a bit below a par score.

Zimbabwe wobbled a bit, but with 5 wickets in hand, and only 19 runs needed, our cause looked lost. We hadn't fielded well at all, dropping a lot of catches, but this team has spirit and fight in abundance, and we staged an incredible comeback to tie off the last ball. That sparked off incredible celebrations, led by a 6 foot 5 inches leprechaun by the name of Adrian Raferty, who went to school with Jeremy Bray, and is out here on honeymoon with his wife Kylie.

As if that wasn't dramatic enough, we then had another epic encounter with Pakistan on St Patrick's Day. On a difficult wicket, we had them in trouble early on at 15 for 2, but got nervous, and let them reach 50 without further alarm. Andre Botha and Trent Johnston came on and tightened it up, and backed up some super fielding and catching, we dismissed them for just 132 – game on!

Boyd Rankin, who started his cricket with Bready, picked up 3 wickets, one of which was former Limavady wicket-keeper Kamran Akmal, who was looking dangerous. Boyd gets extra bounce with his height – he's 6 feet 8 inches – and although he conceded a few wides, he troubled all their batsmen. On the matter of his height, the team had dinner at a restaurant owned by Courtney Walsh in Kingston the other night, and we put the two back to back to see who was taller, and I'm proud to report that Big Boyd had two inches to spare over the fast bowling legend.

Niall O'Brien with 72 saw us to victory over Pakistan, a result which gives us real hopes of qualification for the Super 8 stage, and another major scalp to add to our cv. Cue more celebrations, and a party to end all parties. The players attended the Sunset Grande in Ocho Rios, where the majority of the fans are based, and with a live band and Irish dancing, the atmosphere was electric. The fans and players were all still on a high, and proceeded to quite literally drink the bar dry!

Sunday saw me visit my wife Ciara, and my family at their hotel, and it gave me a chance to chat with fans from all over the North West who have travelled out there. Colin Spence had dressed up as Elvis at the Pkaistan game, while Brian Robinson from Donemana, and Johnny Heywood from Fox Lodge, sported bikinis in the national colours of Jamaica – not the prettiest of sights!

Back to reality now, and the hard work and graft that have got us to this position continues. I'm obviously disappointed not to have featured in the first two games, but it's a squad game, and I'm ready to grasp my chance if it comes. Hopefully, in the next instalment, I'll be reporting from Antigua, if results go our way.

Wednesday saw another terrible tragedy, when news filtered through of the death of NW Chairman, and former ICU President Bob Kerr. Bob died of a heart attack out here supporting the team, and his loss is a terrible one for both North West and Irish cricket.

There was no-one that's done more for cricket from his home out in the West than Bob. Nobody has travelled more miles from Fermanagh, be it to Belfast, Ballymascanlon or Dublin, to sit in hours of meetings. He was just a true gentleman.

He was also a close friend of the family and my dad Paddy was devastated by the news. He was at my wedding last year and it's just true to the man that it wasn't good enough for him just to shake my hand and say thanks for inviting me and congratulating me. When everything died down him and his wife sent me a lovely hand-written letter just to reiterate what a fantastic day they had. That just sums up Bob for me, he'll be sorely missed by me and a lot of people in cricket.

It was ironic that on the day that he died, our qualification for the Super 8 Phase was confirmed, with Pakistan beating Zimbabwe.

The West Indies game was one that I have mixed emotions about. It was nice to get on the field of play in front of 15 000 screaming fans, but sad that it was only as a substitute fielder, and not in a playing capacity. It was great to sample the atmosphere – I don't think that I'll get a chance to play in front of a crowd like that again, with the home support being so vocal – unless we play at Eden Gardens in India.

To watch Chanderpaul score a superb century and to witness their reaction was just something else. I can't say that the team were overawed – that's something that has impressed me about this team – we haven't let the occasion get to us after the debutant nerves against Zimbabwe. Sometimes you just have to put your hands up and say we were beaten by a better team on the day.

Our batting was a little bit below par, and we ended up setting a target of 190, when 250 was nearer par. All credit to Chanderpaul, who put every loose delivery away, and also played some fantastic shots to good balls as well, which as an ex bowler myself, I know is heartbreaking.

We've now moved on to Guyana, and I'm lucky to have my wife Ciara with me. Leaving my parents, brother and cousin in Jamaica, was a very sad occasion. I valued their support, and realize the sacrifices they've made to support me. It's just disappointing that they didn't see me play, but that's cricket. I know there are plans being made for some of them to return for the Barbados leg of the trip, which seems to be the plan for most of the fans hoping to come out and support us.

Reality has kicked in that we are now in the Super 8 Phase, and we'll be pitting our wits against the World elite. It seems unbelievable that we're through and both India and Pakistan are out, but we're not complaining – although some commentators, particularly the English media, would rather have us not here. We won't need any motivation when we face them on Friday.

It'll be great to get a crack at England – we've only played them once before, in Belfast last June, where we gave a good account of ourselves. They are already going on about the International make up of our team, which is a bit rich coming from them, when two of their top batsmen are an Irishman, Ed Joyce, and a South African, Kevin Pietersen.

The more exposure we get against the top countries can only mean improvements in our game. Look at Sri Lanka and Bangladesh – they've overcome periods of not being competitive to more than holding their own on the World stage. We need finance and games, if we are to get better, and hopefully the ICC will ensure both. It can't be good for any sport to have such a small elite.

Clive Lloyd and Brian Lara came into our changing rooms after the West Indies game, and they were of the opinion that we should be playing more 3 and 4 day games, perhaps in the County Championships.

There's no doubt we need to build on the momentum we've started here, but how best is a challenge for the administration. Clive Lloyd was also impressed with Boyd Rankin, who he thinks has great potential.

We need to be facing bowlers of a greater speed – 85-90 mph is not uncommon in International cricket, and we don't get that in domestic cricket. With more players playing professional county cricket, our game will improve. It's a balancing act though – if they become too good, we could very well lose them to England. We need to be offering them a good quality of International cricket, to stop them wanting to play for England. That's got to be our aim if we want to continue to make a mark on this type of stage, and defections don't help our progression.

It's been another hard week of training with just the one match so far against England, and us due to face South Africa on Tuesday. Looking back at the England game, the frustrating thing is that we probably played below par. We were only at about 75%, when perhaps a complete performance would have given us a great win. We have squeezed twice in the last two games by the spinners in the middle order, and that's something we've been working on.

The wickets out here are very slow, and strangely enough, we're finding it tough. Most of the tracks we've played on this year have been fairly quick, namely South Africa, Kenya, Abu Dhabi, Trinidad, and Jamaica. The wickets here are low and slow, but it's the same for both teams. We've looked at different ways of combating this, maybe guys using their feet more, which is how Niall O'Brien plays them. Others play from their crease and move sideways to help manoeuvre the bowlers line, while some of the team favour the sweep.

We've changed our practice around a bit to give it more of a match situation feel. Sometimes in the nets, you play a shot, and think that's runs, where in a game, good fielding can cut it out. This way people can get a better visual idea of field settings. Frequent rain showers have disrupted our preparations, while the nets at the Providence stadium don't allow for this type of scenario, as they are enclosed.

It's something the coaches are all keen on, and we'll get a chance to work on it as the tour progresses. I'm sure we'll be better players of quality spin by the end of the tour. We're not facing Associates attacks where you get one or two bowlers who aren't top quality – here, everyone is of the highest calibre, and you don't get many loose deliveries to punish.

Back to the England game, and Big Boyd Rankin gave us a great start nipping out Ed Joyce and Michael Vaughan early on. Unfortunately for us, Paul Collingwood, Kevin Pietersen and Andrew Flintoff all got runs, and set us a score of 266. It's no secret that we targeted the England top order, who have been vulnerable of late, but those three were extra special. We can look forward to facing more quality players as the tournament progresses, with Matthew Hayden, Adam Gilchrist, Stephen Fleming and co all waiting for us over the next few weeks.

If we get nothing else out of this over the rest of the Cup, it will be the experience of watching these guys play at close quarters. It's better sitting in the changing room here than watching it on tv at home. You really don't get an idea of how they manufacture an innings, unless you witness yourself in the flesh. It was a joy to see how Collingwood manipulated the bowling and how he moved about the crease. It was a classical one day innings, as he built steadily, nurdling the ball around the gaps, before unleashing a barrage in the closing overs. It really was a masterclass, and hopefully we can learn from this type of players.

It's frustrating that I haven't been able to break into the starting XI yet. You've got to keep working hard, and hope that the chance will come. I'm remaining focused as we've still got 5 games to play. It's been a shame that the way things have worked out, that I haven't got a chance to spend time in the middle. The games I've started have seen the top order do really well, and others where the bowlers have gotten teams out for low scores, and I haven't been needed.

Adi has indicated that he's playing what he considers to be his strongest XI, and it's hard to argue with the results we've been getting. It's not easy at times, but you've got keep the spirits up. Adi understands how it is for the four who aren't playing, but I'm not looking for sympathy. I've got be dedicated, and be ready if and when an opportunity arises. It's the biggest test of my career so far. I think it's harder to be here and not playing, rather than out of the squad and not playing. I'm working hard in the nets on my technique, and am feeling in good form. Whatever happens in this tournament, the effort I've put in will put stand me in good stead for the season back home which starts in a few weeks time.

Another very encouraging performance against South Africa, in a game where the weather did us no favours. 160 was a good target to set in those conditions, especially after Pollock and Ntini delivered a great opening spell. We had some good cameo knocks, with most of the recognised batsmen getting into double figures. We had lost a lot of momentum with the rain delays. We can take credit from the fact that we are still being competitive. I think we were helped by the fact that we had given them a scare in the warm up game, and that mentally they had a bit more respect for us, than they had for Scotland and the Netherlands in their group games.

There's no doubt that we've earned respect from them. The annoying thing is that I still feel we have more to give. I honestly don't think we've played to our full potential yet. If we do, then there's no doubt we can pull off yet another win. It's hard work against these top sides, and maybe it's them who are not letting us play to our capacity. If we do get it right, then who knows what we can achieve? It's been a steep learning curve for us, and South Africa are without doubt, a classy outfit.

This week saw me win the Strabane Sports Council personality of the year. It's a great feeling to win this, especially from my home town council. I know that Strabane is a real hotbed of sport, and that we have a great number of talented people. Myles Hannigan, the world draughts champion hails from the town, and he also was nominated. I like to keep an eye on all sports in the district, and I'd like to think that my sporting colleagues are also aware of what Irish cricket are achieving.

I'd like to pay tribute to all those who were also nominated for the award, and it was nice to see John Semple also pick up an award. John helped me a lot, especially in my early years. He took me along to various Ulster trials, when St Colman's didn't have a team. Ireland's achievements can be attributed to a lot of unsung heroes, and John was definitely one of those. At times like this you reflect on the people who have helped your career, and along with John, Dessie McCall, Ian Johnston, Brian O'Rourke, Bobby Rao, and my father all had a major influence at some stage.

I recall a game shortly after I wasn't picked for an Ulster side, when John was in the opposition, playing for Brigade II. I got 25 and a few wickets, and he collared me after the game, saying if I had played like that, I would have been a certainty for selection. I probably didn't have the confidence at that time, and felt more comfortable in the club scene. It's good that he got a bit of recognition for all his hard work.

There are 4 games left, and there's a possible opening in the top order with the injury to Andre Botha. It's unfortunate that I've had to rely on people losing form/getting injured in the hope of getting a game. I understand that Adi is picking the best team to get a job done, but it doesn't make it any easier that I don't seem to be part of those plans. I can only keep putting in the work, and if the chance comes along, grasp it with both hands.

We had a good long net today, and I batted for 45 minutes against two spinners. We had again set up a match situation, to help us recreate the conditions we're struggling with in the middle overs. It hasn't been pace which has troubled us, but the slower bowlers, who have had a big impact. The practice wickets in Guyana are very slow, and turn a lot. If I can score at 4 an over in those conditions, I reckon it's not too big a step to score at 6 in a match.

Everybody plays the spinners differently, and I'd like to think I have more than one string to my bow when playing them. I sweep, come down the track, and move about in the crease as well. It just depends on the situation, and how I feel best that I will upset their rhythm.

Off the field, we went on an expedition to Kaiteur Falls, and it was simply awesome. On tours, you don't have many days off, so when an opportunity to travel and experience the culture and sights, you take it. We had a fantastic time, and many of you will have seen the footage on Sky Sports. The waterfall was spectacular, and all the group had a superb time.

Sean McGrath, the owner of our hotel here, the Cara Lodge, hosted a drinks/food reception last evening at his home. It really was breathtaking, and the team enjoyed the occasion tremendously. It gave us a chance to thank the Irish community out here, and their support in the campaign so far has been exceptional. Irish teams don't tend to visit this part of the world, and it gave the ex-pat community a chance to welcome us, which they certainly did.

Barbados is the next leg of the journey for us, and it's a place I know very well from various tours. I have many friends out there, and it has a great cricketing culture, which will only enhance our already wonderful time in the Caribbean. I'm trying to set up a meeting with former Donemana pro, Kenrick Marshall, who was instrumental in the early development of William Porterfield. Former Strabane professionals Jerry Kirton and Ahmed Proverbs also live there, and it'll be great to catch up with them. Then there's the one and only Hendy Wallace, who always make us feel so welcome in his home country. It should be a great trip.

Since I last wrote, I finally made my much awaited World Cup debut versus New Zealand. Although I only scored 2 runs batting down the order at number 8, it was an awesome experience, and one which will live long in the memory. The fact that I've represented my country at the highest stage is something that nobody will ever be able to take it away from me.

It's been an incredibly frustrating time for me, as I'm now not an automatic selection in the team after being a fixture for so many years. How can you argue with Adi though, given the results we've achieved. It took an injury to Andre Botha to get me the game, and after being well placed, we collapsed against their very good spin attack. It was unfortunate that I couldn't do enough to keep my place, but we were fighting a losing battle when I got to the crease. I'm disappointed in that I didn't do well, but I'll always cherish the memory of playing here – they'll never be able to take that away from me.

We left Guyana and landed in Barbados – my favourite Caribbean island. I have many friends here, through having toured with various NW selects over the years, on the trips organised by John Beattie. If you ever get the opportunity to visit the wonderful island, grasp it – you certainly won't regret it.

I met up with former Strabane professional Jerry Kirton, who coached me at under 13 level. Jerry was instrumental in our 1987 Senior Cup win over Donemana, and is still revered at the club. It was a chance for me to say thanks to him for his help – he was one of a number of people who played a major role in my career, and to be playing in a World Cup on his island, was a bit special.

Among a number of reunions, one saw William Porterfield meet up with former Donemana professional Kendrick Marshall, who is now in the police force in Barbados. Marshall, the first professional at Donemana, coached William as a child, and his pride at seeing him win the MOM Award on Sunday was a joy to behold.

Cricketing legend Gordon Greenidge presented William with his award, which I'm sure will take pride of place on the Porterfield mantle place. Another legend helped out opening bowler Boyd Rankin – 'Big Bird' Joel Garner sought out Boyd after being impressed by his performances in the competition so far. He talked for over an hour offering tips on different deliveries, run up, and general views on the art of quick bowling Hendy Wallace also attended our net sessions, and had a look at the squad practising. He couldn't believe the intensity of our preparation, especially in the heat of the middle of the day! I also met Ahmed Proverbs, who I have to say, is still as crazy as ever!

It's great to have the travelling support back in such members – we had a merry band in Guyana, but try as hard as they could, they couldn't generate much noise. How that changed at the Kensington Oval. It really is spectacular to see the number and joy on their faces. We've definitely won the hearts and minds of the locals out here as well – they have adopted us after the poor showings and lack of spirit in the West Indies camp. They like our brand of cricket, played hard, but with a smile on our faces. Lanky's ferret dance, and TJ's funky chicken dance are proving particularly popular.

The guys are handling being recognised very well, and it won't go to their heads. Boyd with his height and success in the Cup is also extremely popular out here – he really is a 'gentle giant.'

Back to on the field matters, and we've experienced the highs and lows of international cricket within 48 hours. Australia were simply exceptional. They lilerally blew us away. Skipper Ricky Ponting talked of his ambition to crush us – reminiscent of Steve Waugh and his talk of mental disintegration. The first ball from Shaun Tait set the tone for the day – a short pitched 95 mph delivery which flew past Porty's nose – welcome to the real world! Ponting mentioned that it was one of the quickest balls he had ever seen an Aussie bowl! We never got going and were out for just 91 – 45 minutes later and it was all over – beaten by 9 wickets. They allowed us to be bullied – not a sniff of a chance the whole through. We were taught a lesson, but we showed what this squad is made of with our 'bouncebackability'.

Bangladesh were outplayed in all facets of the game. 'The most complete performance in 4 years with the team' was how skipper Trent Johnston saw it. Adrian Birrell had spoken the day before of how we always seem to respond well after crushing blows – it's become our hallmark. Who would have envisaged after the lows of Kenya, that we would be playing and winning on the biggest stage of all. There's no doubt that our win over the UAE in the InterContinental Cup proved therapeutic. Incidentally, that final has been switched to Leicester and will be played on May 22-25.

Wednesday sees a time for me to reflect on what lies ahead post World Cup. It's been a long tour, and an emotional time for me and the squad. There's been a lot of highs and lows, and I won't make any spur decisions about my future. I won't lie and say that it hast been easy sitting on the sidelines watching. I'll have to talk with my wife Ciara about the future – there's been a lot of travelling and time away from home over the last 5 years, which hasn't been easy for her. Either way there will be cricket – whether it's for Ireland or Strabane, I can't say at this stage.

The fan mail we received was simply exceptional – thousands of letters from all around the country, and the number of schools which got involved was encouraging. The players were genuinely moved by the support, and it motivated us even more to do the country proud. It was a great touch by An Post, and much appreciated. Don't know why Royal Mail didn't do something similar, but all credit to An Post – I'll have to post all my letters over the border in Lifford now! It was great to receive messages of support from family and friends – I now have them on the wall in my room and in the dressing room. The players would like to pay tribute to everyone who took the time to write to us – a great gesture.

After 8 weeks away from home, we've finally arrived back in Ireland - indeed I've only spent 11 days in the country since the New Year. We've been in 11 different countries in that time, and travelled over 80, 000 miles. Last time I looked I had no fewer than 8 different currencies in my wallet - don't think there's much chance of spending Guyanese dollars in the Fir Trees!

Our campaign ended with a bit of a whimper, but by that stage there was absolutely nothing left in the tank. I don't think we appreciated just how much effort that victory over Bangladesh took out of us. Still it was a great opportunity to face Muralitharan at close quarters, and despite all the video analysis, we still didn't have a clue. That's no disgrace, as we chatted with New Zealanders and South Africans, and they didn't have a notion either. Boyd Rankin and Dave Langford-Smith had the best idea - go down the wicket and swing. It seems the best policy in the circumstances.

Still we finished 8th in the tournament, and are now rated 10th in the Official LG ODI rankings. That achievement has really pleased our departing coach Adrian Birrell, who when he took over, saw us in 18th place, rated below Denmark after a disastrous ICC Trophy in 2001.

It's been a wonderful time to be involved with Irish cricket, and in Adrian Birrell, we've been fortunate to have a superb coach and motivator. A great tactician, he became known as Mr 1%, with no stone being left unturned in his quest to improve the team.

Paul Mooney has also called it a day, and what a servant he's been to Irish cricket. A true competitor, with a never say die spirit. he lived and breathed Irish cricket, and it'll not be the same without his presence in the changing room. Trent Johnston has taken up a role as Railway Union Cricket Development Officer, but will continue to play international cricket for the time being.

I'm not sure yet where my destiny lies. I'd considered quitting, but will wait and see if I figure in Phil Simmon's plans. I still feel I have something to offer, but maybe he will want to go for youth. It's been a great career for me, and I've traveled all around the world and made some lifelong friendships through the wonderful sport of cricket.

There's a lesson in life to be learnt with what Ireland has achieved in the Caribbean. It's not just talent that counts – you've got to back it up with hard work, effort and it helps if you have a team spirit. The squad had all that in abundance, and we enjoyed ourselves. We were determined to play with a smile on our faces and create a lasting impression. We've won new admirers everywhere with our brand of cricket – even Duncan Fletcher commented in an England team meeting that they should be showing the enthusiasm of the Irish.

I'd recommend the sport of cricket to all youngsters, and hopefully with the Irish presence now on the world stage there will be even more chances to visit far and wide. In addition to playing India, West Indies and South Africa this summer, there are plans for an overseas tour in the winter to either New Zealand or Australia.

Thanks to everyone for their feedback to my column – your positive comments are much appreciated. I'd like to thank the paper for giving me the opportunity to air my views. It's one area I'd like to go into when my career draws to a close – hopefully not just yet.

I must admit that I'm looking forward to seeing all my family and friends again. There is a new pitch and clubhouse at Strabane, and by all accounts it's already looking a belter of a track. Hopefully, I'll get a few runs on it.

I'd like to say thanks to my brother Michael who has supported me all through my career, and he has been a rock of inspiration to me, and my final words of thanks go to my wife Ciara, for her never ending patience and commitment to me – it hasn't been easy being the wife of a cricketing nomad, but she's stuck by me, and I thank my blessings every day.