Australia vs. Ireland Prediction: Australia In A Better Position to Win

Australia will face Ireland in the next Super 12 match at The Gabba Stadium at 11:00 a.m.

Before the first ball was bowled in this competition, Australia was considered one of the favourites to capture the trophy and defend their championship in their home country. With the status of defending champions and favourites, the hosts appear to have faltered under pressure. Yes, that's not what you'd expect from an Australian team. Especially because they only won the event a year ago.

The Kangaroos were defeated by New Zealand in their tournament opener and were on the verge of collapse against Sri Lanka if Marcus Stoinis' knock hadn't saved them. Despite their offensive potency, the batting lineup has yet to gel.

Ireland, on the other hand, will be riding high after a stunning victory against their European rivals England. After knocking out West Indies in the first round and upsetting England's cart, they clearly deserve the moniker "giant slayers" in this competition. Andrew Balbirnie's team will have to bring their A-game against the great Aussies if they are to breach the fortress Gabba.

To begin, their bowling unit must maintain their current level of performance. Joshua Little has been a force on the Powerplay and might pose a challenge to Aaron Finch in this game. Along with him, Mark Adair and Curtis Campher have performed admirably, as has Barry McCarthy.

With New Zealand cruising through this group with a blistering net run rate, the race for the second semi-final position appears to be heating up. With that in mind, it may not be altogether incorrect to classify this game as a knockout fight.

Obviously, nerves will play a role, but Australia may be under greater pressure than Ireland. It's time for the reigning champions to prove their worth and demonstrate their true colours. If they don't, they may have to relinquish their title before the actual knockouts begin.

• Republic of Ireland Total Runs In First 6 Overs Over 38.5 for 1.8
• 1 - Over, Total Runs Australia Under 6.5 for 1.8
• 1 - Over, Total Runs Republic of Ireland Over 5.5 for 1.8