COLOMBO - Pace-bowling allrounder Shane Watson says controlling the swinging ball in Colombo's humid conditions will be a major focus for the Australians as they prepare for today's opening World Twenty20 Group B encounter.
In a clash of No.9 versus No.10 on the world rankings, 2010 runners-up Australia will start as strong favourites against Ireland.
The Irish were briefly ranked above Australia last week, before Australia clinched the dead-rubber third match of their series against Pakistan in Dubai on September 10.
Australia beat New Zealand by 56 runs in a warm-up game last weekend and followed that up with a narrow loss to No.1-ranked England on Monday, scoring 6-163 in reply to the defending champions' 6-172.
Australia's in-form left-arm quick Mitchell Starc grabbed 2-32 but was the main offender in terms of accuracy with eight wides.
Clint McKay (0-33) is likely to be dropped for teenager Pat Cummins, who was rested for the England game.