Antigua: Marcus Stoinis and Travis Head were the stars as Australia overcame a spirited Scotland in St Lucia to maintain their perfect record in the Group stages and advance to the Super 8 phase of the World Cup here on Sunday.
Despite a strong showing from Scotland, including a blazing half-century from Brandon McMullen, Australia's superior firepower secured their victory and, in a twist of fate, ensured England's progression to the next stage.
Despite a strong showing from Scotland, including a blazing half-century from Brandon McMullen, Australia's superior firepower secured their victory.
Australia's chase began sluggishly, with early dismissals of David Warner and Mitchell Marsh. However, a robust partnership between Stoinis and Head turned the tide. Both batsmen scored crucial half-centuries, with an 80-run stand off just 44 balls.
Stoinis blasted 59 off 29 balls, while Head's steady 68 ensured Australia crossed the finish line with two balls to spare, securing a five-wicket victory.
Scotland had set a target of 181, starting strong with 54/1 in the PowerPlay. McMullen led the charge with a spectacular 60 off 34 balls, the second-fastest half-century of the tournament.
This victory was particularly sweet for Team England, as it secured their spot in the Super 8 stage. While England triumphed over Namibia in their final Group B match, their advancement was hanging by a thread, reliant on the outcome of the Australia vs. Scotland showdown. With Scotland matching England's points tally, the Three Lions found themselves in the unusual position of needing their neighbors to fall to their arch-rivals to move forward.
Despite the bitter rivalry and Josh Hazlewood's pre-match suggestion that Australia would enjoy knocking England out of the T20 World Cup 2024, the Aussies delivered a crucial win. By defeating Scotland, Australia not only showcased their dominance but also paved the way for England's entry into the Super 8, much to the delight of English fans.
Inspite of their promising start, Scotland's momentum waned in the final overs, managing only 42 runs in the last five overs and finishing at 180/5.
George Munsey's aggressive batting also formed the key moments of the Scotland innings.
Despite a couple of quick wickets, McMullen’s innings kept the score ticking. Richie Berrington added a vital 42* in the death overs, but Australia’s disciplined bowling restricted Scotland’s total.
In response, Australia faced early pressure with Warner and Marsh dismissed cheaply. Despite a late wicket, Australia’s powerful hitting in the final overs ensured their win.
Australia now has a four-day break before their first Super 8 game on June 20 in Antigua, where they will face either Bangladesh or the Netherlands.
Scotland, despite their commendable performance against the defending champions, exit the tournament on Net Run Rate.
Brief scores: Scotland 180/5 in 20 overs (Brandon McMullen 60, Richie Berrington 42*; Adam Zampa 1-30) lost to Australia 186/5 in 19.4 overs (Travis Head 68, Marcus Stoinis 59; Mark Watt 2-34) by five wickets.
