There was only one change for Ireland’s Under 19 World Cup squad from the squad which competed in the World Cup Qualifier (WCQ) in Canada in September. That was the inclusion of one additional player, Clontarf’s opening bowler Jordan Coghlan.
A nephew of Clontarf’s vice-Captain and opening bat Bill Coghlan, Jordan, just turned 17 on 10th October last, is a player of immense promise.
Cover Point caught up with him just before the Christmas break…
Jordan Coghlan
CP: What were your personal highlights of 2009?
JC: Opening the bowling for the 1st at Clontarf, and getting picked for the Under 19 World Cup squad.
CP: Did your selection for the World Cup come as a surprise?
JC: There were a few rumours going around and Andy Balbirnie mentioned my name a couple of times but I thought the squad would just be the squad that went to the World Cup Qualifier.
I never thought I’d get picked for this.
CP: How did it come about - a phone call from Matt Dwyer?
JC: I was called to train with the squad first. But again I just thought the final squad would be the same one as went to Canada.
Then I got a call from Matt three or four weeks ago, saying ‘Congratulations, you’ve made the final squad. Well done.’
I couldn’t believe it.
CP: Biggest Influence?
JC: Joe Morrissey, my captain at Clontarf CC. Joe is always encouraging and building you up.
CP: Who was your favourite cricketer growing up?
JC: Freddie Flintoff
CP: What area of your game do you want to improve over the coming months?
JC: Improving my bowling really. Using the opportunity to learn as much as I can and learn something new every day I’m over there (at the World Cup).
CP: What are the team’s goals for the World Cup?
JC: To reach the Super 8 stage.
CP: What are your personal goals for the World Cup?
JC: To do my best all the time and to take as many wickets as I can.
CP: What else are you passionate about?
JC: Rugby – I play number 8 for my school Clongowes.
CP: Long-term what are your cricket goals?
JC: To play cricket professionally.
Jordan Coghlan in conversation with Liam Rooney
Copyright: Cover Point
