Sydney: Australia will play limited-overs internationals against Ireland and Scotland in the next two years, the first time the World Cup champions have played official games against associate nations outside International Cricket Council events.

Cricket Australia said today that Ireland, which upset Pakistan and Bangladesh en route to the Super Eights stage of last year's World Cup, will host Australia in June 2010 when Australia begins a one-day tour of England.

Australia will visit Edinburgh on Aug 28, 2009 for a one-day international against Scotland, four days after the Ashes Test series ends at The Oval in London.

Australia then plays a seven-match, one-day series with England.

Cricket Scotland chief executive Roddy Smith said it was a major achievement for Scotland and Ireland to play Australia.

"Although Scotland and Ireland are fierce competitors on the field, this is a great example of the two countries working together off the field to both our benefit," Smith was quoted saying.

Six associate teams competed at last year's World Cup in the Caribbean, but only four will be included for the 2011 event in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka an Bangladesh in a tournament shortened from 47 days to 38.
Source : PTI