Australia’s pacer Nathan Ellis produced a moment of brilliance to dismiss Ross Adair during the Group B encounter between Australia and Ireland in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on Wednesday, February 11.
Nathan Ellis strikes early for Australia with a brilliant slower ball
The breakthrough came in Ireland’s second over, first ball, as Ellis unleashed a perfectly disguised slower delivery. Adair, attempting to back away and nudge the ball onto the on-side, was completely deceived by the lack of pace. The ball flicked off Ellis’ fingers, clipped the pad, and crashed into middle stump, leaving the batter undone. Adair departed for 12 off 9 balls, including one four and one six.
Ellis celebrated with visible delight as Australia made the ideal start with the ball, tightening their grip on the contest.
Here’s the video:
What was that, Nathan Ellis?! 🙌
A slower one so good, you can’t help but smile! 😅
ICC Men’s #T20WorldCup | #AUSvIRE | LIVE NOW 👉 https://t.co/jGP2pQtjsX pic.twitter.com/rYcDNLA5bc
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 11, 2026
Australia post competitive 182/6 after batting first
Earlier, after winning the toss and opting to bat, Australia compiled a solid total of 182 for 6 in their 20 overs. While the innings didn’t feature a single dominant fifty or century, it was built on meaningful contributions across the order.
Captain Travis Head fell early after being run out, but Josh Inglis steadied the innings with an aggressive 37 off 17 deliveries. His innings included crisp stroke play that lifted Australia’s scoring rate in the powerplay.
Cameron Green chipped in with a brisk 21, while Matt Renshaw anchored the middle overs with a composed 37. The middle order ensured the innings didn’t lose momentum, particularly after a mini-collapse around the halfway mark.
The acceleration came courtesy of Marcus Stoinis, who smashed 45 off 29 balls, injecting much-needed power during the death overs. His ability to find boundaries against the Irish bowlers gave Australia a strong finish.
Late cameos from Cooper Connolly and Xavier Bartlett ensured the total crossed the 180-mark, a score considered competitive in T20 World Cup conditions.
Ireland’s bowling had its moments, with Mark Adair picking up two wickets. Matthew Humphreys, George Dockrell and Harry Tector also managed to contain the scoring in phases, but Australia’s depth ultimately proved decisive.
