Australia have begun their T20 World Cup campaign in strongly on Wednesday, defeating Ireland by 67 runs in Colombo.
After losing captain Mitchell Marsh at the eleventh hour with a groin injury, Travis Head took the reins as skipper and opted to bat first. He fell early, yet his promoted opening partner Josh Inglis ensured Australia scored at a strong rate, making 37 from 17 balls.
Australia scored quickly with Cameron Green contributing 21 from 11 balls, yet wickets fell at regular intervals to keep Ireland in the contest. Those early losses meant Matt Renshaw and Marcus Stoinis had to rebuild. Renshaw made 37 from 33 balls and Stoinis added 45 from 29 as Australia reached 182 from 20 overs.
Ireland faced a demanding chase on a slow, turning wicket. The side lasted 16.5 overs and were bowled out for 115. Man of the Match Nathan Ellis took 4 for 12 from 3.5 overs.
Marsh is sidelined with internal testicular bleeding. Steve Smith has travelled to Sri Lanka as cover and could join the squad if required.
A statement from Cricket Australia said: “Mitchell Marsh will miss the opening match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup after sustaining a direct blow to the groin during training earlier this week. He is experiencing ongoing pain and discomfort which is restricting his movement.
“Scans have confirmed internal testicular bleeding, and he will require a period of rest and rehabilitation. His return to play will be guided by symptom resolution and medical advice.
“Standby player Steve Smith will travel to Sri Lanka as cover to acclimatise and prepare, should he be required.”
Seeded in Group B, Australia will next face Zimbabwe on Friday – who are coming off their own victory against Oman.
