Ireland have caused upsets in the past, but struggled to have the same impact at home to Pakistan this week. After losing the first one-day international quite convincingly, the Irish gave a better account of themselves in the second to raise spirits in the camp.

Some poor shot selections and good Pakistan bowling saw free bet underdogs Ireland bowled out for just 96 in the first ODI but in the second game they took the visitors all the way to the end which was very encouraging.  

Despite the 2-0 series whitewash, the Irish are still learning and have a strong base to excel in international cricket. It's always going to be hard for an associate nation to beat an established international side that have played all three formats for years but Ireland's success in the past has raised expectations and given them a drive to succeed against the very best.

They have the belief to beat the biggest nations and the talent to improve game by game, even if free bets tend to back their opponents. As a team they have learnt from their mistakes and a sign of a good side is to bounce back from a disappointing display. The win over England at the last World Cup was enough to give spectators an indication at where the team is in terms of progression. They are head and shoulders above their nearest associate nation.

The Irish have the ability within their side, they just need to show consistency and play as regularly as they can to improve. It's a disgrace that the International Cricket Council thought it was a good idea to exclude Ireland from the next World Cup as they have been the main success story in the last eight years.

They have strong performers all across their side. Right from the very top, Paul Stirling marked his credentials with eye-catching displays during the World Cup which was backed up in the second game against Pakistan, when the right-hander smashed another century to give his side a fantastic platform to build on.

Captain William Porterfield is a consistent county player and top drawer batsmen while Gary Wilson is a key part of Surrey's emerging side. Ed Joyce has played for England which underlines his talent and the O'Brien brothers are consistent performers, who have the ability to hit the boundaries.

Their bowling attack has experience in Boyd Rankin and Trent Johnston and spin bowler George Dockrell is one to watch after his impressive performances with the white ball.  

Ireland need to be allowed to establish themselves in the international game in order to keep hold of their players. To try and stop their best players searching for a way into international cricket, like Eoin Morgan leaving to play for England, Ireland need to be given the opportunity to improve as a cricketing nation.

Ireland will only get better if they keep playing and to do that, they need to compete with the best in order to beat the best, like they have done in the past. Mark my words it wont be long before Ireland are granted as a Test playing nation because they are at a better stage now than what Bangladesh were when they were given permission to play the five-day format.

                   Pete Long