Ellis & Zampa Dominate as Australia Crush Ireland by 67 Runs in T20 World Cup 2026
Australia launched their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a commanding performance, defeating Ireland by 67 runs in Colombo. Led by sensational bowling spells from Nathan Ellis and Adam Zampa, the Aussies controlled the match from start to finish.
Australia Post Competitive 182 on Two-Paced Surface
Batting first at the R Premadasa Stadium, Australia put up 182 for 6 in 20 overs. Although no batter crossed the half-century mark, valuable contributions throughout the lineup ensured a strong total.
Marcus Stoinis top-scored with 45, while Josh Inglis added 37 during the PowerPlay. Cameron Green chipped in with a quick cameo before Ireland briefly slowed the scoring in the middle overs.
A crucial 61-run partnership between Stoinis and Matt Renshaw steadied the innings before late cameos from Xavier Bartlett and Cooper Connolly pushed Australia beyond the 180-mark.
Ellis Strikes Early as Ireland Collapse
Ireland’s chase suffered an early setback when captain Paul Stirling walked off injured after facing just one ball. Though Ross Adair started aggressively, Nathan Ellis turned the match around in a dramatic spell.
Ellis removed Ross with a clever slower ball before dismissing Curtis Campher two deliveries later. His precision continued as Ireland slipped to 27 for 4.
Adam Zampa then tightened the screws, removing key middle-order batters including George Dockrell and Mark Adair. Dockrell’s 41 and Lorcan Tucker’s 24 briefly revived hopes, but Ireland were eventually bowled out for 115 in 16.5 overs.
Match Summary
- Australia: 182/6 (20 overs)
- Ireland: 115 all out (16.5 overs)
- Result: Australia won by 67 runs
- Top Performers: Nathan Ellis (4/12), Adam Zampa (4/23)
This victory also marked Travis Head’s first win as Australia’s T20I captain, stepping in for Mitchell Marsh, who is sidelined with injury.
Turning Points
- Ellis’ double-wicket burst in one over
- Stoinis-Renshaw partnership in death overs
- Zampa’s match-sealing final spell
Conclusion
Australia demonstrated depth and discipline in both departments, showing why they remain strong contenders in the T20 World Cup 2026. Ireland, despite flashes of promise, struggled to cope with Australia’s bowling variations on a challenging surface.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who was the Player of the Match in AUS vs IRE?
Nathan Ellis starred with figures of 4 for 12, playing a crucial role in Australia’s win.
2. What was Australia’s total against Ireland?
Australia scored 182 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs.
3. How many wickets did Adam Zampa take?
Adam Zampa picked up 4 wickets for 23 runs.
4. Why did Paul Stirling leave the field?
Paul Stirling appeared to suffer a hamstring injury after facing only one delivery.
5. What was the final result of the match?
Australia defeated Ireland by 67 runs in their T20 World Cup 2026 opener.
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