New Delhi: Australian players will be firmly on Ireland’s side when Lorcan Tucker-led Ireland take on Zimbabwe in a Group B match at the Palleke International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.
Australia have endured a disastrous campaign in the marquee tournament and their promotion hopes are now in jeopardy. They must beat Oman in their final group game, while relying on Sri Lanka and Ireland to defeat Zimbabwe, to keep their slim hopes alive.
In fact, if Zimbabwe beat Ireland on Tuesday, Australia would be eliminated even before their final league game against Oman.
What if rain washes out Zimbabwe’s game against Ireland?
Continuous showers lashed Pallekele, covering the entire ground. While forecasts suggest the weather may improve later in the day, the threat of flooding remains.
Without a result, Zimbabwe would have been enough to reach the Super Eight stage and knock Australia out of the tournament. Zimbabwe currently have four points from two games and would be on five points if eliminated – enough points to qualify.
Australia, meanwhile, have two points with just one match remaining. Even if they beat Oman to take four points, it won’t be enough if Zimbabwe get an extra point.
Australia started their campaign with a 67-run win over Ireland but suffered two consecutive defeats – a 23-run loss to Zimbabwe and then were beaten by Sri Lanka by eight runs.
For now, Australia are hoping it doesn’t rain and Ireland can pull off a win to keep their campaign alive.