Australia beat Ireland easily

13/04/2007

Ponting’s decision to field first was backed up by a stupendous bowling performance from their frontline bowlers, as they dismissed a spineless Irish batting order for 91 runs in 30 overs.

Australia made an early meal of the target as they reached home in just 12.2 overs after losing one wicket, that of Adam Gilchrist, the match lasting all but 42.2 overs in total.

Fast bowlers Glenn McGrath (3-17) and Shaun Tait (3-39) led the Australian juggernaut as they shared six wickets between them, while Stuart Clark, Brad Hogg and Andrew Symonds took one wicket each.

Score : Ireland 91/10 in 30 overs (J Mooney 23, T Johnston 17, K O Brien 16, McGrath 3/17, Taait 3/39) Australia 92/1 in 12.2 overs (Gilchrist 34, Hussey 30, Johnston 1/18)