World T20 cricket: Tim Murtagh says Ireland capable of upset

Ireland bowler Tim Murtagh believes Ireland are capable of progressing from their pool at the ICC World Twenty20.

The Irish face group matches against Australia and the West Indies.

The 31-year-old, who plays for Middlesex, told BBC London 94.9: "If we can upset one of those two there's every chance we might get through.

"They're two quality teams and we'll have to be right at the top of our game but I think we've got the potential to do that."

He added: "The guys have done it in World Cups before. People have underestimated Ireland and often come unstuck."

Murtagh declared his interest in playing for Ireland last summer, but had to wait until the one-day international against Australia this June to make his debut.

The Londoner, who qualifies to represent Ireland through his grandparents' heritage, has featured in one Twenty20 international, against Bangladesh in July.

"Ireland have given me an opportunity and it's one I'm really excited about," he continued.

"It [getting into the team] has been slightly frustrating for me but I don't deserve to walk straight into the team and take someone's place who has performed well over the years," he said.

"I have to earn that right and impress the selectors, the coach and the captain and do all the right things to try and get in the team.

"It shows good strength in depth that Irish cricket have got now and hopefully that will continue for many years."

Ireland face Australia in their first pool match on Wednesday.