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| Source: cricinfo.com |
- Ireland 123/7 (K O'Brien 35, Watson 3/26) lost to Australia 125/3 (Watson 51, Warner 26)
Summary:
Australia avoided another embarrassing group stage defeat with a commanding performance against Ireland. Shane Watson set the tone removing Irish opener William Porterfield with the first ball of the game, as the Aussie attack took wickets at regular intervals to restrict Ireland to a low total. Watson and fellow opener Dave Warner ensured Australia were never troubled in the run chase.
All-round performance:
The match ended up being all about Shane Watson. Took three wickets with the ball including the key wicket of Irish top-scorer Kevin O'Brien, before notching the tournaments first fifty in a typically bludgeoning fashion. Was also involved in a bit of by-play on the field with the Irish player and the umpires.
Who's hot:
Australia: Watson aside, the Aussie will be encouraged by the performances of Mitchell Starc (2/20) with the ball and Cameron White (22 off 19) closing the innings. Captain George Bailey's move to open the bowling with Watson was inspired.
Ireland: The O'Brien brothers provided the most resistance to the Australians combining for 55 runs and a wicket. Opening bowler Rankin competed hard against without reward against Watson and Warner.
What it means:
Australia: Have shown that T20 rankings are pretty meaningless, as Australia have at times been ranked below Ireland. Can now concentrate on Super Eight stage without worrying about needing a result against the West Indies.
Ireland: Teams now take Ireland very seriously after their efforts at the last T20 World Cup. Will need to improve dramatically to challenge the West Indies.
The Votes:
MVP: 3- S Watson (pretty obvious), 2- K O'Brien (fought on with bat and ball), 1- M Starc (2 wickets and was economical)
Tucker Trophy: 1- P Stirling (made 7 off 12 and went for 13 off one over), 2- W Porterfield (golden duck as captain a bad look), 3- Australian uniform designers (hang your heads in shame)
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