 Adrian Birrell has guided Ireland to the 2007 World Cup |
Adrian Birrell has described Ireland's qualification for the World Cup as the climax of his spell as coach. Ireland secured their place in the 2007 West Indies finals with a 73-run victory over Denmark in Thursday's ICC Trophy game at Bangor.
"This has been the total focus for me over the last three and a half years since I came to Ireland," said Birrell.
"It is fantastic getting over the line at last. The players have given 100% and I am proud of them."
South African Birrell took over from former New Zealand captain Kenny Rutherford in 2002, knowing the hosting of the ICC Trophy would be a wonderful opportunity for the Irish to make the World Cup finals for the first time.
Now he believes Ireland, who meet Canada in the semi-finals on Saturday, can go on and win the ICC event.
"We have not batted very well to date," he added.
"But the middle-order has been brilliant getting competitive scores every time.
"It is not finished yet, when we sort out our game and make a good start to a match, I am sure we can go on and win the trophy."
Top batsman Ed Joyce will miss Saturday's game as he is returning to Middlesex, but if the Irish win he is expected to be back for the final.
MMIX
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