George Bailey has labelled Shane Watson the "complete cricketer" after the all-rounder's performance in the victory over Ireland.

Australia started their World Twenty20 tournament with a comfortable win in Colombo and Bailey was left in no doubt over which one of his players was the standout performer against the Irish.

Watson's fluent half century as well as his three wickets in Ireland's innings secured him the man of the match award.

"He is not bad, is he?" Bailey said of Watson. "His fielding could probably improve a little.

"No [I am joking], he is a complete cricketer and I think the starts are so important for Twenty20s.

"He is bowling our first over, opening the batting and sets the tone for us. He was outstanding for us today."

Ireland are on the brink of exiting the tournament after the defeat and will need to beat the West Indies if they are to have any chance of making the Super Eights.