Roy Torrens: Irish cricket mourns death of former Ireland manager

Chair of Ireland men’s selectors Andrew White, who played in Ireland’s World Cup squads in 2007 and 2011, said Torrens was “at the forefront” of the team’s successes which eventually culminated in Test status being achieved in 2017.

“Team spirit was embodied by him and it’s no coincidence that we had that success,” added the former Ireland all-rounder.

“He played a huge role in helping the coaches Adi Birrell and Phil Simmons settle into their roles and he just go it. He got Irish sport and got Irish cricket and knew the game inside out.”

Torrens’ death in the Causeway Hospital in Coleraine came a day before Ireland face Afghanistan in their second game of a three-match one-day series in Abu Dhabi which also has World Cup qualifying points on offer.

But while White said the news would, be “difficult” for the players, he added that they will be “going out tomorrow to try and do him proud”.

“We wanted to spend time in his company. That’s what made touring really enjoyable.

“It was those moments on and off the field where you just knew this man in your ranks who was doing his utmost for you as an individual and the team.”