AUS vs IRE: Head Run Out After Toss Win

Australia began their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against Ireland with an early setback in Colombo, as stand-in captain Travis Head was run out in the opening overs.

After winning the toss, Australia chose to bat first at the R. Premadasa Stadium. Regular captain Mitchell Marsh missed the match due to an injury sustained in training, with Travis Head leading the side.

Head started positively, striking a boundary early in the innings. However, Ireland struck back quickly. After a dropped catch in the first over, Ireland capitalised soon after with a run-out that sent Head back to the pavilion for six runs.

The early breakthrough gave Ireland momentum in the powerplay phase.

Josh Inglis opened alongside Head, while Matthew Humphreys began the bowling attack for Ireland. The match marked a milestone for Glenn Maxwell, who played his 500th T20 game. It was also Head’s 50th T20 International appearance.

Australia’s playing XI included Travis Head (C), Josh Inglis (wk), Cameron Green, Matt Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Cooper Connolly, Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa and Matthew Kuhnemann.

Ireland fielded Paul Stirling (C), Ross Adair, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Curtis Campher, Benjamin Calitz, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Mark Adair, Barry McCarthy and Matthew Humphreys.

Australia entered the tournament as one of the strong contenders, while Ireland aimed to challenge expectations with disciplined bowling and sharp fielding.

The Group B fixture is part of Australia’s early group-stage schedule, with upcoming matches against Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka and Oman.

As the innings progresses, Australia will look to stabilise after losing their captain early, while Ireland will aim to build pressure with consistent bowling.

More updates to follow as the match unfolds.