Colombo, Feb. 11 -- From a last-minute setback to a statement start, Australia turned adversity into authority as Travis Head marked his first outing as T20I captain with a commanding 67-run victory over Ireland in their ICC Men's T20 World Cup opener at the R Premadasa Stadium here on Wednesday.
With regular skipper Mitchell Marsh ruled out due to a testicular injury, Head stepped into leadership amid uncertainty. By the end of the evening, however, Nathan Ellis' deceptive slower balls and Adam Zampa's spin web had ensured Australia began their campaign in emphatic fashion.
After posting a competitive 182 for 6 on a sluggish, two-paced surface, Australia bowled Ireland out for 115 in 16.5 overs. Ellis returned superb figures of 4 for 12,...