Player to watch in 2011 - Jordan Coghlan

The Clontarf all-rounder has been tipped as one of ten Irish sports stars to make a significant impact on the world stage in 2011.

In the Sunday Tribune article, respected journalist Ger Siggins outlines why he thinks the youngster will come to greater attention in 2011.

The World Cup looms large in Irish cricket's plans for 2011, and one man who won't be there, but has the ability to lead the attack at future World Cups, is uncapped all-rounder Jordan Coghlan.

The 6'4" Clongowes schoolboy has taken giant strides in 2010 and, at 18, has two sets of national selectors knocking on his door. English counties are at it too.

A strapping fast bowler with an impressive heavy ball, Coghlan has progressed through the Clontarf and Leinster underage set-ups.

He spent part of transition year in South Africa, from where he returned with a smoother run-up and strong, high action.

He also impressed the Australians at last January's under-19 World Cup. Their coach asked about him when Ricky Ponting's side visited Castle Avenue in the summer and he got a chance to bowl to the stars. The carrot of a place at the Brett Lee Fast Bowling Academy was dangled should he continue to show progress.

Although he sits his Leaving in June, the Raheny teenager may not need the CAO points.

Besides opportunities here and in England, Coghlan was selected as a number eight for Ireland's under-19 rugby squad, which may pave the way to an even more lucrative career.

But should he stick with cricket, the sky's the limit.

Gerard Siggins