IRELAND face an unexpected challenge in qualifying for the 2011 cricket World with the news that the qualifying tournament is likely to be switched from the UAE to Bangladesh.

The ICC World Cup Qualifier, which will take place next April, provides entry to the World Cup for the four semi-finalists. Ireland were runners-up in 2005 when they lost to Scotland in Dublin.

Conditions in Bangladesh are likely to be difficult, with high humidity and intense heat. Ireland played a series of ODIs there last March and found conditions almost unbearable.

“We know what to expect,” said all-rounder Kevin O’Brien. “Very few of the other teams have played out there but those three games are to our benefit. Six or seven of the guys played there in the U19 world cup too.”

The problems Ireland encountered were mainly due to a short acclimatisation period. “For an event that important I expect we’ll be there for three or four weeks beforehand. I’m sure Phil Simmons will have something lined up for us.”

The ICCWCQ, formerly the ICC Trophy, was set to take place in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi in April but the conditions of the local stadiums are reported to have given cause for concern. 

O’Brien’s own fitness is another worry after he broke down before the first ODI against Kenya last Sunday. “I have stress fracture in my back and won’t be able to bowl for several weeks. My best hope is to be available as a batsman for the I Cup games in Namibia and Kenya.”