Ireland deny Pakistan win fixed

Johnston will lead Ireland against England in Guyana on Friday

Ireland captain Trent Johnston has dismissed suggestions his side's shock victory over Pakistan was a fix.

The World Cup debutants knocked their Asian rivals out of the tournament - a result which was followed by the murder of Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer.

"We keep hearing things about match-fixing," said Johnston, who felt the rumours demeaned Ireland's display.

"You only have to look at that game and the way we bowled and fielded and I was just hugely proud of the guys."

The Irish bowled out Pakistan for 132 in their Group D match and then scored the runs with 8.2 overs remaining to spark feverish celebrations at one of the great World Cup upsets.

"The toss of the coin was crucial against Pakistan and we bowled very well against them," Johnston added.

"We still had to go out and get 130-odd runs against a quality bowling attack and they were giving it everything and luckily we got home."

We've had lots of phone calls to make to our bosses back home Ireland skipper Trent Johnston

Ireland subsequently lost to West Indies but are now in Guyana preparing to face England on Friday in the Super Eight stage of the tournament.

"All the rumours about the match have probably taken the shine off it a little for us, but this is the first day it's really sunk in that we're here and we're pinching ourselves a bit," said Johnston.

"It is a tragedy what happened to Bob and it has taken away a little of the excitement, but we've had to move on.

"I was hugely proud of the guys about the way they handled themselves around the hotel because there was obviously a lot going on and we put that at the back of our minds."

The 32-year-old Australian-born Johnston added: "We could potentially be going back to work in Ireland, but instead we're still here and we've got another month's cricket.

"We're playing the best eight teams in the Super Eights - it's hugely exciting.

"We've had lots of phone calls to make to our bosses back home and they've all been outstanding and we can't thank them enough. To be over here and be a part of this is something very special.

"We're going to enjoy every day that we're here and go out and try and be as competitive as we can and, who knows, we may be able to cause another shock or two."