Ireland have come a long way since last year's ICC World Cup and middle-order batsman Kevin O'Brien hopes the country continues to build on the gains it derived from the cricketing extravaganza in the Indian sub-continent.
Coach Andy Flower says England's youthful side have gained vital experience against Pakistan which will help them in their bid to defend their World Twenty20 title later this year.
He is the rugged face of Afghan cricket with a story fit for the big screen, and he embodies not only his nation's turbulent past, but its hopes for a brighter future.