Former Irish international Alan Johnston has died at the age of 63.

A formidable opening bowler, Johnston enjoyed great success with Lurgan and Ulster Country which saw him capped three times for Ireland in 1990.

He played against Worcestershire (twice) and Sussex in those games dismissed England Test cricketers Tim Curtis and Steve Rhodes as well as Phil Neale.

He played an integral part as Lurgan won the Irish Senior Cup three times in seven years, and current Cricket Ireland Chairman Ross McCollum was a team-mate during that time.

"Alan was an exceptional cricketer who was perhaps unlucky not to have represented his country more. He was a superb bowler who had remarkable control and skill, rarely bowling a bad ball.

"He was a friend and colleague and he will be sadly missed by all in Irish cricket. I'd like to pass on my sincere condolences to all his family at this very sad time. In cricketing terms he was one of the good guys."

Photo courtesy of Lurgan Mail