Cricket:Ireland teenagers George Dockrell and Paul Stirling are poised to make a significant contribution to their country's cause at the ICC World Twenty20, according to captain William Porterfield.
Ireland open their campaign on Friday night against tournament hosts the West Indies at the Guyana National Stadium.
They lost their opening warm-up match against New Zealand by 40 runs yesterday, Jesse Ryder and Rob Nicol producing an opening stand of 104 before Porterfield brought on slow left-armer Dockrell (17) and off-spinner Stirling (19).
Stirling bowled Ryder and then caught Nicol in the next over off Dockrell, who went on to take two more wickets to complete his four overs with figures of three for 22.
“They both came on and bowled really well and it was difficult the way Jesse was going there,” said Porterfield.
“He was targeting that short boundary and that made it difficult for every bowler at that (Pavilion) end.
“Stirlo (Stirling) came on and bowled really well and got him the first ball he bowled to him.
“The way George bowled as well was really good and that’s good for us the way the two of them were bowling.
“If they hopefully keep that going it will be a good asset for us.”
Ireland are yet to finalise their team for Friday’s game, but both Dockrell and opening batsman Stirling appear set to be in the starting XI.
All-rounder Alex Cusack (shin splints) is the only injury concern but Porterfield added: “I wouldn’t say it was set but we’ve got a pretty good idea of the team we want to put out there.
“There’s maybe one spot still undecided but we’ll see how it goes. I’m pleased with the performances of the both of them (Dockrell and Stirling) and naturally hope it will continue.”
Ireland were tonight playing their second warm-up match against fellow qualifiers Afghanistan, a rematch of the ICC qualifier final when they lost by eight wickets in Dubai.