T20 World Cup 2026 | Australia’s Strong Show Dominate Ireland With 67-Run Victory

Nathan Ellis’ fiery 4/12 and a strong all-round batting effort powered Australia to a dominant 67-run win over Ireland in Colombo.

Australia registered a commanding 67-run victory over Ireland in the 14th Match, Group B, of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, on February 11. After posting 182/6 in their 20 overs, Australia bundled Ireland out for 115 in 16.5 overs to seal a comprehensive win.

Batting first, Australia had a shaky start as captain Travis Head was run out for 6 in the second over. However, Josh Inglis counterattacked brilliantly, smashing 37 off just 17 balls, including six fours and a six, to shift the momentum.

Cameron Green chipped in with a quick 21 off 11 deliveries, helping Australia race ahead in the powerplay. Though wickets fell at regular intervals, Matt Renshaw steadied the innings with a composed 37 off 33 balls.

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Marcus Stoinis then provided the late flourish, hammering 45 off 29 balls to push the total past 180. Cooper Connolly (11* off 8) and Xavier Bartlett (11* off 6) added useful unbeaten runs at the death to take Australia to a competitive 182/6.

For Ireland, Mark Adair was the pick of the bowlers with 2/44, while Matthew Humphreys, George Dockrell, and Harry Tector claimed one wicket each.

Ireland Faltered From The Beginning

Chasing 183, Ireland’s innings never gained momentum. Captain Paul Stirling retired hurt on the very first ball, and the top order collapsed under relentless pressure. Nathan Ellis struck early and often, finishing with a sensational 4/12 in 3.5 overs, dismantling Ireland’s middle and lower order. Adam Zampa matched the impact with 4/23 in his four overs, ensuring there was no path back for Ireland.

George Dockrell fought back with a spirited 41 off 29 balls, and Lorcan Tucker contributed 24, but the lack of partnerships hurt Ireland badly. They were eventually bowled out for 115, falling well short of the target.

Ellis was deservedly named Player of the Match and also emerged as Cricinfo’s MVP for his match-defining spell, as Australia secured a dominant win to strengthen their position in Group B.