Paul Brady sensationally qualifies for All-Ireland Senior Singles final on his return to action

Handball

Paul Fitzpatrick at Croke Park

Five-time world champion Paul Brady has sensationally qualified for the oneills.com All-Ireland Senior Singles final after two superb wins over the weekend.

The 44-year-old Mullahoran man defeated Tyrone's Conor McElduff in Saturday’s quarter-final at Croke Park before ousting 2022 champion Diarmaid Nash of Clare 21-14, 21-7 in today's semi-final.

Brady, who last entered the All-Ireland in 2013 but had been active in doubles and in American events in the meantime, will take on holder Robbie McCarthy in the final at Croke Park on April 6.

Brady opened an 18-3 lead in game one with an awesome display and whie the brilliant Nash clawed his way back to 14, 'the Gunner' picked it up again in the second to win 21-7.

A large Cavan crowd is expected to attend the final at the National Handball Centre in Croke Park.

Mullingar's McCarthy defeated Corkman David Walsh in straight games in the other semi-final with a classy performance.

Meanwhile, the Ladies Senior Singles final will be contested by the in-form Catriona Casey of Cork and first-time finalist Fiona Tully from Roscommon.

Casey was brilliant in comfortably defeating Tyrone's Eilise McCrory, with Tully serving a stern test against Limerick lefty Martina McMahon, winning the second game 21-20.

The finals look set to be a sell-out, with tickets on sale from early this week.