Nathan Ellis produced a fiery opening spell to propel an under-strength Australia to a commanding 67-run victory over Ireland in their Group B opener of the T20 World Cup on Wednesday. Defending 183, Australia’s pace spearhead ripped through the Irish top order, finishing with outstanding figures of 4 for 12 in 3.5 overs. Leg-spinner Adam Zampa then dismantled the middle and lower order with 4 for 23 from his four overs as Ireland were restricted to 115 for 9 in 16.5 overs.
Veteran Paul Stirling was retired hurt and did not bat. With Mitchell Marsh sidelined by a groin injury and senior quicks Mitchell Starc retired, plus Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood unavailable due to injuries, Ellis stepped up as the leader of the attack. He struck early, bowling Ross Adair with a skiddy delivery before Ben Calitz dragged one back onto his stumps against sharp pace and bounce. His initial spell read 3 for 9 in three overs. Zampa then tightened Australia’s grip, although George Dockrell’s 41 off 29 balls ensured Ireland crossed the 100-run mark. Ellis returned to claim his fourth wicket and close out the match. Earlier, Australia posted 182 for 6 after being sent in on a sluggish surface. Josh Inglis (37) and Cameron Green (21) set the tempo before Matthew Renshaw (37) and Marcus Stoinis (45) combined for a crucial 61-run stand. Ireland’s spinners bowled tidily but dropped chances proved costly. After Travis Head was reprieved in the first over and then run out in the second, Inglis and Green counterattacked briskly. Green struck towering sixes before falling to midwicket, while Inglis was dismissed following a stunning diving catch by Stirling. Harry Tector removed Glenn Maxwell, but Renshaw and Stoinis rebuilt steadily before Humphreys bowled Renshaw. Stoinis followed soon after, despite a powerful six. Ireland conceded 53 runs in the final five overs as Australia sealed an emphatic start.
