T20 World Cup: Ireland knocks out 2 times winner West Indies to qualify to Super 12

New Delhi: Two times ICC Men’s T20 World Cup winners West Indies have been knocked out after a cracking defeat from Ireland. Gareth Delany pulled out a superb bowling performance by picking up three wickets which helped Ireland to restrict the power-hitting Windies to 146/5. Ireland chased down the total in just 17.3 overs after a masterclass from the top order.

While Sri Lanka also struggled in pool A but eventually managed to qualify for the Super 12 stage, West Indies too started with a defeat against Scotland and ended up getting knocked out by Ireland. Being the favourites in their pool, the West Indies lineup lacked the spark while Ireland has been part of major upsets in the ICC tournaments previously also.

In the game, West Indies lost two early wickets and Brandon King took the responsibility on his shoulders to take his team through. King stood alone as Delany picked three wickets in the middle overs with a bit of smartness and change in line. King scored 62* off 48 balls but Delany’s 4-0-16-3 was enough to halt the Windies on a low score. 

Paul Stirling and captain Andy Balbirnie laid the foundation for a successful chase with a 73-run opening partnership. Ireland’s star batter Stirling went on to score 66* off 48 deliveries while Lorcan Tucker contributed with his 45* off 35 to lead Ireland to Super 12 qualification. While Jason Holder tried to restrict, the rest of the bowling lineup went for runs. Ireland managed to win the game by nine wickets and become the third team to enter Super 12 from the group stage. 

Meanwhile, whoever wins the game between Zimbabwe and Scotland will be the fourth team to qualify ahead.