Niall O'Brien is a left-handed batsman and wicket-keeper who has played 59 one day internationals and 21 T20Is for Ireland.
Domestically he began his professional career with Kent before joining Northamptonshire at the start of 2007. In 2012 he signed a three year deal with Leicestershire and moved to Grace Road following three seasons at Kent and six years at Northamptonshire. He made his One Day International debut for Ireland in 2006 and two years later played his first Twenty20 International. He has played key roles in helping Ireland qualify for the last two 50-over World Cups and all four editions of the ICC World T20 since 2009.
O'Brien has also played in overseas t20 leagues, first the Indian Cricket League in 2008 and then the Bangladesh Premier League in 2012. His innings of 72 from 107 balls in the 2007 World Cup group match against Pakistan helped Ireland earn an upset victory and also earned him the man of the match award.
Following Ireland's shock defeat at the hands of the Netherlands which knocked them out of the ongoing World T20 tournament, O'Brien spoke exclusively to PakPassion.net about the reasons for that defeat, where Irish cricket is heading following this disappointment, who he feels will go on to win the 2014 World T20 and much more.