Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Matt Majendie

Australia beat Ireland to boost hopes of T20 World Cup progression

Australia comfortably beat Ireland by 42 runs but were denied the chance to pass England on net run rate in Group 1 at the T20 World Cup.

The hosts had looked on course for a huge NRR advantage when Ireland slumped to 25-5 when chasing 180 for the win. But Lorcan Tucker hit an unbeaten 71 to briefly give Ireland a glimmer of hope of pulling off another tournament upset.

After the early exit of David Warner, Australia scored quickly with Aaron Finch leading the way with 63 runs off 44 balls before the Aussie captain limped off the field with a hamstring injury.

Finch was ably assisted as Australia reached 179-5, Marcus Stoinis and Mitch Marsh scoring 35 and 28 respectively. The pick of the Irish bowlers were Barry McCarthy (3-29) and Joshua Little (2-21).

Australia captain Aaron Finch hit 63 against Ireland before limping off with a hamstring injury (Getty Images)

In response, the Irish had the worst possible start as Mitchell Starc and Glenn Maxwell both took two wickets in their opening overs before Tucker’s solo effort helped create a respectable total.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.