Ireland appoint Brett Lee as bowling coach for World Cup warm-ups

Former Australia paceman Brett Lee has agreed a short-term deal to act as Ireland’s bowling coach in the build-up to the World Cup. Lee, who recently announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, was handed a role hours after South Africa secured the services of fellow Australian Michael Hussey as a consultant. The 38-year-old will assist Ireland during their warm-up period in Sydney.

“Brett’s insight of Australian pitches will help our bowlers, I am sure they will all benefit from the knowledge he has accumulated, especially in the pressure situations of a global event. It is a fantastic opportunity for our bowlers to learn from a living legend. I’m sure all our bowlers will benefit from the experience that a World Cup winner has accumulated, especially in the pressure situations of a global event.” said Ireland coach Phil Simmons.

Ireland play Randwick Petersham in a 50-over friendly on Friday before official warm-up games against Scotland next Tuesday and Bangladesh two days later.

Ireland have been drawn in Pool B of the World Cup alongside India, Pakistan, South Africa, Zimbabwe, UAE and the West Indies, who they face in their opening game in Nelson on February 16.