Given Australia close their group matches with games against Ireland and Afghanistan there has been a lot of talk about net run rate which could yet decide qualification, but Finch followed Glenn Maxwell’s comments from the previous day by saying such a focus can be dangerous and a position of strength has to be earned before taking advantage of it. In a group of narrow margins, though, it could be vital.
Australia WLLLW (last five matches, most recent first)
Ireland WLWWL
It feels likely Australia will retain the same batting order, not least because of the net run rate factor, although Smith will be considered. Adam Zampa would have returned against England after Covid and Matthew Wade, who would have played with it, has now tested negative. Finch did not rule out a reshuffle with Cameron Green coming in as he largely kept every option open.
Australia (probable) 1 David Warner, 2 Aaron Finch (capt), 3 Mitchell Marsh, 4 Glenn Maxwell, 5 Marcus Stoinis, 6 Tim David, 7 Matthew Wade (wk), 8 Pat Cummins, 9 Mitchell Starc, 10 Adam Zampa, 11 Josh Hazlewood
It would be a surprise if Ireland changed the winning side from the England game, unless they wanted to strengthen the spin attack.
Ireland (probable) 1 Paul Stirling, 2 Andy Balbirnie (capt), 3 Lorcan Tucker (wk), 4 Harry Tector, 5 Curtis Campher, 6 George Dockrell, 7 Gareth Delany, 8 Mark Adair, 9 Fionn Hand, 10 Barry McCarthy, 11 Josh Little
You’ll get good pace and carry at the Gabba, but the bounce should be true and it can be a terrific place to bat although Bangladesh and Zimbabwe made it seem tricky. There is a small chance of a shower very late in the day.
“We have seen how damaging Ireland can be if you give them a sniff in a game. They have got some seriously talented players and some experience, especially at the top of the order. They are never a team you can take lightly. If the wicket has got anything in it they have got very good bowlers to maximise that as well.”
Aaron Finch on the danger of Ireland
“I think we know if we play pretty much near our best that we’re going to be able to compete with anybody here.”
Gareth Delany on the channelling the confidence from the England victory