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World Cup hero and Ireland legend Trent Johnston has been speaking to the ICC about Ireland’s chances at the ICC World Cup.
Talking to the ICC, Johnston thinks getting out of the blocks early will be important for Ireland.

“The key to success for Ireland will be in the first 10 overs of each innings. If Ireland can take wickets with the new balls and minimise losing its wickets when batting, it is in with a chance. We can expect its fielding to be world-class as the support team prides itself on the fitness levels of this group” said Johnston, now assistant coach at New South Wales.

“The opening partnership between Paul Stirling and skipper William Porterfield has been the key to success of this side over the past few years. Ed Joyce comes in at three and is undoubtedly the team’s best batsman. The middle-order is sprinkled with the quality of Gary Wilson, the O’Brien brothers and a young man on the move in Irish cricketing circles, Andrew Balbirnie.”

Johnston, who was heavily involved with Ireland’s World Cup appearances in 2007 and 2011, has more ODI wickets than any other Ireland player also knows the importance of a good start with the ball.

“The bowling will need to get early wickets to put the opposition on the back foot. The experience of Tim Murtagh (if he is fit) is key to the bowling of Ireland.

“It is likely that young Craig Young will take the new ball. John Mooney and Kevin O’Brien, who are both playing in their third 50-over ICC Cricket World Cup, will be the key as will George Dockrell.”

With the World Cup starting in five weeks, Ireland are currently taking part in an ODI Tri-Series with Afghanistan and Scotland in the UAE. Ireland’s first match is today, when they take on Afghanistan, you can follow the match live here.

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