Irish Coach Heinrich Malan opines on Andy McBrine's exclusion from T20 World Cup squad

McBrine will miss the World Cup [PC: Twitter]

Ireland announced a strong 15-man squad for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2022, led by Andrew Balbirnie. The Irish side is placed in Group B alongside Zimbabwe, Scotland, and West Indies and will look to qualify for the Super 12 stage, beginning their campaign on October 17. 

The most notable exclusion from the side is veteran off-spinner Andy McBrine, who has been dropped, with selectors giving chance to youngster Simi Singh. 

From 10 matches in 2022, Singh has 11 wickets with a best of 3 for 9, while McBrine has just four from six games. 

Ireland coach Heinrich Malan, speaking to the Belfast Telegraph, revealed the team management's decision to omit McBrine, who has been backed this year.

“Simi has one or more tools in his tool box (and) has done a good job taking wickets. Andy has done well economically but we are trying to impose a brand of brave cricket and looking to take wickets (he took only three in 38 overs this summer). He has a little work to do and has got that message.”

Overall, the Punjab-born bowler has 41 wickets from 49 T20Is since 2018, while McBrine has snapped up 23 wickets from 32 appearances. 

However, Malan maintained that a mix of experience and youth will yield great rewards for Ireland in the marquee event Down Under.

Also Read: Ireland announce squad for ICC T20 World Cup 2022