Irish vice-captain Kevin O'Brien relishing Pakistan matches

Ireland vice-captain Kevin O'Brien is looking forward to taking on a strong Pakistan side in two one-day games at Clontarf later this month.

"They're one of the favourites for the Champions Trophy and it's easy to see why," said the all-rounder.

"They've got world class players throughout their team and it'll be a tough examination for us."

"We're overdue for a big win at Clontarf so hopefully we can give the Irish fans something to cheer about."

O'Brien is a man in form after leading his Leinster Lightning side to a superb win, with an unbeaten century in the opening game of the Inter-Provincial Series against Northern Knights.

He added: "In Saeed Ajmal and Junaid Khan they have two of the best bowlers currently in world cricket and they've got a huge amount of experience in their batting.

"The Irish and Pakistan fans will create a carnival atmosphere and Clontarf is a magnificent setting."

The opening game takes place on 23 June with the second ODI three days later.

Pakistan beat Ireland 2-0 on their last visit in 2011 but captain Misbah-ul-Haq believes his side will face a stern test in Dublin.

"I have great memories from the matches in Belfast two years ago where we enjoyed a fantastic welcome and we were happy to win both matches despite Paul Stirling making a century for Ireland," he said.

"We know that Ireland have many great players and we will not be underestimating them on their home soil in Dublin."