The Irish Cricket Union have sealed a sponsorship package worth up to £250,000 over the next two years.

Current sponsors Bank of Ireland have recognised the increased profile of the Ireland cricket team following their qualification for the 2007 World Cup finals and victory in this year's Inter-Continental Cup, by extending and substantially increasing their support of the team.

Although no figures were mentioned at yesterday's Press reception in Dublin to announce the new deal it is understood the Bank have promised £100,000 for each of the next two years and more money could be on the table depending on the performance of the international team.

Commenting on the sponsorship Stephen Kirkpatrick, head of banking for Bank of Ireland Northern Ireland, said: "Bank of Ireland has a long tradition of supporting sporting organisations across the island of Ireland and we are delighted to extend our sponsorship of the Irish men's cricket team for a further two years.

"Irish cricket has made huge progress over the last number of years and our experience with the ICU has been extremely positive since we first sponsored the one day international against the West Indies last year.

"Looking toward the World Cup in 2007, we hope that our support ensures that the Irish team continues its progress over recent times and is well prepared for a successful World Cup campaign".

In response, Peter Thompson, chief executive of the Irish Cricket Union said: "The next two years will be the most exciting in the history of Irish cricket, with nine matches (each year) against the English counties, a one day International against England and the Cricket World Cup, and to have Ireland's largest bank supporting the team will help to ensure that Irish cricket is prepared both on and off the field".

As official sponsors of the team, Bank of Ireland branding will be carried on the team's shirts and sweaters.

Following their success in the Inter-Continental Cup, Ireland are ranked 11th in the world in the longer form of the game and 13th in the one-day rankings, behind the 10 Test playing countries, Kenya and ICC Trophy winners Scotland.

Ireland's busiest ever summer starts on Sunday April 23 with a home game against Hampshire in the C & G Trophy at Clontarf and will end 17 games later with a fourday Inter-Continental Cup tie against Scotland in Edinburgh.

The highlight, of course, will be Ireland's first official one-day international against England at Stormont on Tuesday June 13, and preparations are already under way. There are plans to accommodate 6,500 spectators.