Niall O'Brien: Wicketkeeper-batsman returns home from Ireland's UAE tour

Niall O'Brien is seeking a new challenge

Niall O'Brien has returned home from Ireland's tour of the United Arab Emirates for personal reasons.

The 36-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman has been replaced in the squad by Stuart Poynter.

Poytner, 27, has played 39 matches for Ireland since making his debut six years ago.

Ireland will begin an Intercontinental Cup game against Scotland in Dubai on 29 November before facing Afghanistan in a one-day series in Sharjah.

The Irish will face the UAE in a 13-a-side two-day warm-up match in Dubai on Saturday and Sunday.

Afghanistan hold a 12-point lead over holders Ireland going into the final series of Intercontinental Cup games and will be guaranteed victory in the competition if they beat the UAE in their game in Abu Dhabi after also taking a first-innings lead.

The contest between the UAE and Afghanistan also starts on 29 November.