Niall O'Brien (cricketer)

Niall John O'Brien (born 8 November 1981 in Dublin) is an Irish cricketer educated at Marian College, Ballsbridge. He is a left-handed batsman and wicket-keeper. O'Brien's brother Kevin plays with him in the Irish team. His father, Brendan, played cricket for Ireland from 1966 to 1981, and his sister Ciara O'Brien is in the Irish women's hockey team.

Personal life and education

O'Brien was educated in Marian College, Ballsbridge. His brother Kevin is also a member of the Irish team. Their father Brendan played 52 times for Ireland.

Domestic career

Kent

Along with fellow Irish player Ed Joyce, O'Brien made a series of impressive performances for Ireland before starting to take part in English cricket with Kent. O'Brien found multiple chances to perform for his county as fellow wicket-keeper Geraint Jones has found himself performing more often for the England cricket team.

Northamptonshire

After being released by Kent he signed a one-year deal with Northamptonshire for 2007. At the end of the 2008 season, O'Brien was named Northamptonshire's player of the year and was rewarded for his consistent performances with a three year contract with the club. A representative of Northamptonshire CCC said "Niall, who has just returned from international duty, was in sensational form last season with the bat,...
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