(BBC) Ireland bowling coach Craig McDermott believes the Irish have a “very good chance” of shocking his native Australia in today’s opening ICC World Twenty20 Group B clash.
McDermott, 47, stepped down as Australia’s fast bowling coach in May and has been working with the Irish for less than a month.
But the ex-Australian paceman has been impressed with the Ireland team.
“We’re here to win. Australia will be nervous,” said McDermott in Colombo.
“Everybody will expect them (Australia) to win so it’s going to put them under the pump.
“I’ve worked very hard with these (Irish) boys and got on very well with them.”
Australia coach Mickey Arthur has admitted that he is anticipating a tough test from the Irish at Colombo’s Premadasa stadium.
The Aussies are currently ninth in the world rankings and for a time recently were ranked below Ireland after losing back-to-back games to Pakistan.
However, veteran Mike Hussey remains a redoubtable performer for the Aussies – who were beaten in the 2010 final by England – with opening batsmen Shane Watson and David Warner also capable of demolishing bowling attacks.
“I will only rest easy when that game has passed,” added Arthur.
“That’s not through fear of failure. Ireland have been a giant-killer down the line.”
Ireland’s shock wins in previous major tournaments included World Cup victories over Pakistan and England in 2007 and 2011.
McDermott acknowledges that the resources available to the Irish are considerably less than what he was used to in the Australian set-up but he still insists that Phil Simmons’ squad have prepared well.
“It’s a different set-up right down to the amount of kitbags,” added McDermott.
“With a side like Australia, there is more stuff – more everything I suppose for the players.
“Given what Ireland have from a funding perspective, in terms of how they have prepared for the tournament, I think they have done a great job.
“I’m looking forward to them playing some good cricket and putting Australia under pressure.”
