- Australia have increased their chances of progressing to the T20 World Cup semi-finals after defeating Ireland by 42 runs.
- Aaron Finch smashed 63 runs from 44 balls during Australia vs Ireland fixture at the Gabba.
The Australia vs Ireland fixture of Group 1 ended in victory for the Aussies, who are now second in the group standings.
Australia defeated Ireland by 42 runs at the Gabba to increase their chances of progressing to the Men’s T20 World Cup semi-finals.
Australia vs Ireland. Photo/ The Indian Express.
Aaron Finch impressed with his performance during the match as he smashed 63 runs from 44 balls.
Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa and Glenn Maxwell combined well to produce a bowling masterclass as they took six wickets.
Australia had to bat for the first time since the start of this tournament after Ireland won the toss and elected to bat.
Ireland enjoyed some strong periods after the start of the game. However, the Aussies cashed in on a handful of poor overs to post an imposing 5-179. The Men in Green responded well in strife with 5-25 after four overs.
Australia had an opportunity to nab their first wicket, but Andrew Balbirnie narrowly survived after Josh Hazlewood clipped the top of the stumps, but the bails did not fall off.
Andrew Balbirnie used the opportunity to hit a six on the next ball. However, Pat Cummins’ bowling later ensured he didn’t survive.
Glenn Maxwell took two wickets in one over, dismissing the lethal Paul Stirling. Harry Tector would later pick out Steve Smith.
Ireland were left in trouble after a swinging delivery from Mitchell Starc made Curtis Campher go for a duck. Mitchell Starc had his second wicket after George Dockrell departed for a duck.
Marcus Stoinis broke the attack of Tucker-Gareth Delaney after joining the party and getting a wicket.
Ireland were clearly struggling as Adam Zampa took a few more wickets to help Australia seal the win they much needed.
Mitch Marsh smoked a 102-metre six that reached the top deck of the stadium. But McCarthy caught him behind for 28 off 22 for his second.
Josh Little would then catch Glenn Maxwell chasing a loose delivery after making 13 off 9. Marcus Stoinis impressed with blistering innings afterwards, just like he did against Sri Lanka in their last fixture.
Australia would have inflicted more damage on their opponents if not for McCarthy’s outrageous athleticism. McCarthy dived backwards in full strength, caught the ball, and then threw it back over the rope before landing on the ground.
Australia’s captain Aaron Finch managed to take advantage of the over, going past fifty for the first time in seven T20Is.
In the end, Finch smashed 63 runs off 44 balls, while Stoinis holed out with 35 runs off 25 balls.
Australia could play their next fixture without Aaron Finch and Tim David, who seemed to have suffered injuries.
Australia cricket team players. Photo/ BBC.
Speaking after the match, Aaron said he would have a scan tomorrow.
“A little hammy twinge, so I’ll get scans tomorrow. Unfortunately, I’ve had a history of them. It doesn’t feel too bad.” Aaron Finch said after the game, as per Fox Sports.
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