Brett Lee to coach Ireland during World Cup warm-ups

Brett Lee appointed as Cricket Ireland bowling coach

Australian fast-bowling legend Brett Lee has agreed to a short-term deal with Cricket Ireland to act as bowling coach during the team’s warm-up fixtures ahead of the World Cup. The 38-year old retired from all forms of the game after following the conclusion of the Big Bash League final last month. The two-time World Cup winner has played in 221 ODIs, claiming 380 wickets and has 310 wickets in 76 Test matches.

Ireland head coach Phil Simmons is hoping that Lee could pass on his experience to the Irish attack that will be missing both Trent Johnston and Boyd Rankin. He said: "Brett's insight of Australian pitches will help our bowlers, I am sure they will all benefit from the experience 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.", mentioned Simmons.

Keen on helping pace bowlers across the world: Brett Lee

Speaking with PTI in an interaction, Lee said: "I am keen on helping Indian bowlers but I am not seeking a full-time role. But yes I am really keen on helping out pace bowlers across the world,"

Lee added, “Yes, I am helping out Ireland during the World Cup, I have helped Bangladesh during my playing days. I remember having a session with their bowlers before we played them in one international series.”

Ireland are scheduled to play two warm-up games, against Scotland and Bangladesh, before the commencement of World Cup. Their first Pool B game is against the West Indies in Nelson on 16 February.