William Porterfield is captain of the Ireland team

Ireland captain William Porterfield is confident that his side can qualify for the next Cricket World Cup by winning the forthcoming qualifying tournament.

"I think we are in the slightly tougher qualifying group but we'll be going there as favourites and looking to win every game," said Porterfield.

"I see no reason why we should not qualify by winning the tournament.

"Hopefully the plans to tie up players on full-time contracts can move a big step forward if we make the World Cup."

"We want to see ourselves moving forward and the financial incentives are there to see players go full-time with Ireland."

The Irish squad fly out to South Africa on 14 March, ahead of their first qualifying fixture against Scotland on 1 April and Porterfield is pleased with the depth of the squad.

"We have good cover in all areas and the competition for places is very fierce.

"It is not going to be easy to pick a final eleven but that's a good headache to have.

"It will be nice to play in a hotter climate too and it's all about learning to play in different conditions from that which we are used to.

It was nerve-wracking taking over as captain but a lot of the older heads chipped in to help and it was vital to have their experience to call on William Porterfield

"There will be things we'll have to get used to but it'll be a great place to go and play."

Only four countries will qualify from the tournament and Kenya are among the nations taking part on this occasion.

"Six countries qualified the last time but we now have a lot of Irish boys getting a chance to play full-time cricket and you can only improve by doing that.

"To play cricket on a full-time basis is every player's aim and I was fortunate enough to get my chance across the water.

"Adrian Birrell gave me my chance for Ireland too and things have gone from strength to strength. He really helped me and I'm grateful for that."

The 24-year-old is relishing his role as Ireland skipper, although he admits that it was a daunting prospect at first.

"It was nerve-wracking taking over as captain but a lot of the older heads chipped in to help and it was vital to have their experience to call on.

"When I'm batting I concentrate on my batting but when I'm in the field there are a lot of things in your head."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version