Captain paul stirling

T20 World Cup: Nathan Ellis and Adam Zampa delivered a clinical bowling masterclass, taking four wickets each, as Australia registered a dominating 67-run win against Ireland in their T20 World Cup 2026 opener at the R. Premadasa Stadium on Wednesday.

Chasing 182, Ireland were bowled out for 115 in 16.5 overs. Captain Paul Stirling retired hurt after facing just one ball, dealing an early blow to the chase. Ellis struck in the third over and went on to take three wickets in seven balls, while Zampa struck in early as Ireland were five wickets down in just 45 runs in the chase. After a poor start, Lorcan Tucker and George Dockrell added 46 runs, but the defeat was inevitable as both fell due to the mounting pressure of the required run rate.

Earlier, a 61-run partnership between Matthew Renshaw and Marcus Stoinis lifted Australia to 182/6 after early setbacks. Travis Head was run out early, while Josh Inglis (37 off 17) and Cameron Green (21 off 11) provided a brisk start with a 49-run stand. Renshaw made 37, and Stoinis added 45 to set up a competitive total, which the bowlers defended comfortably.