T20 WC: Australia defeated Ireland by 42 runs

Australia got their T20 World Cup defense back on track with a 42-run win over Ireland at the Gabba in Brisbane on Monday.

With this win, defending champions Australia kept their semifinal hopes alive at the T20 World Cup. Skipper Aaron Finch (63) struck a fine half-century to guide Australia to 179 for five before the bowlers shot Ireland out for 137 in 18.1 overs.

Lorcan Tucker was the lone warrior for Ireland as he remained unbeaten on 71.

Earlier, Finch made 63 off 44 balls, while Marcus Stoinis scored 35 off 25 deliveries after Australia were sent in to bat.

Barry McCarthy (3/29) was the pick of the bowlers for Ireland, while left-arm pacer Josh Little (2/21) scalped two wickets.

Ireland had outside hopes of reaching the semi-finals before the match but they were blown away initially by the pace and inswing of Mitchell Starc and then by the pressure of chasing 180 to win.