Birrell relishes Ireland clash with Proteas

GEORGETOWN: Ireland's South African-born coach Adrian Birrell is relishing the World Cup Super Eights clash against Graeme Smith's Proteas here on April 3.   

The former Eastern Province coach is returning home after the tournament, following four years in charge of the Ireland team who have stunned the cricket world by making the second round of the World Cup on their debut appearance.   

"It's an amazing prospect. I'm South Africa's biggest fan, I've coached a few of the players in that squad and for me to coach a side in the World Cup against them is a big honour," Birrell said.   

"I do hope they win the tournament if Ireland don't, it's going to be an incredible experience and I'm really looking forward to that game."    

Ireland, who defeated former champions Pakistan in the first round, open their Super Eights programme against England here on Friday.   

Birrell hopes to have captain Trent Johnston back after a shoulder injury and said: "It's a dream to play them in a World Cup - who would have thought it would happen a few weeks ago. They have their own problems but are a tremendously good side and have shown they can bounce back from a series of defeats in Australia. It will be challenge but we look forward to it and relish the opportunity."