World Twenty20: Ireland wait on Stirling fitness ahead of Holland match
Ireland hope to have batsman Paul Stirling available for the decisive World Twenty20 first-round clash against Holland.
Last Updated: 21/03/14 12:55pm
William Porterfield's side top Group B after winning matches against Zimbabwe and the United Arab Emirates, and would assure their place in the Super 10 stage by maintaining their 100 per cent record in Sylhet on Friday.
A sizeable net run-rate advantage means they could still go through even if they slip up against the Dutch, but with high-profile matches against England, South Africa, Sri Lanka and New Zealand at stake they will take nothing for granted.
But big-hitting opener Stirling was forced to retire hurt after being hit on the elbow during the 21-run D/L win over UAE, and although he has avoided a break will face a final check-up before the teams are announced.
Ireland physio Andrew Dunne said: "I would be hopeful. Without any fracture he can't do any more damage to it but it can still be painful so we'll see how he pulls up in the morning."
Porterfield and coach Phil Simmons face a selection headache between off-spinner Andy McBrine and seamer Tim Murtagh.
They have each played a match each thus far, 20-year-old McBrine impressing on debut against Zimbabwe before Murtagh turned in an equally impressive showing when replacing the 20-year-old on Wednesday.
Conditions are likely to play a part, while Stirling's availability and fitness to bowl his deceptive spin may also come into the reckoning, with McBrine a possible beneficiary should be not be ready to contribute with the ball.