Australia’s campaign – and bid for titles across all three formats – was underway with what is ultimately a comfortable victory.
When Glenn Maxwell fell for a golden duck, continuing his horror run with the bat, they were 50 for 3 and thoughts briefly turned to what could unfold but Marcus Stoinis and David Warner added 102 off 64 balls to ensure Australia did not stumble early.
Stoinis was dropped on 9 then bludgeoned six sixes in his innings as he turned around a sluggish start with Oman’s bowlers keeping pressure on their big-name opponents for 14 overs. It was hard work for Warner, who became Australia’s leading run-scorer in men’s T20Is, but he used his experience to not throw the innings away.
Australia were then largely efficient with the ball as Mitchell Starc struck in the opening over with a toe-crushing yorker – although he was later unable to complete his spell as he left the field but it was confirmed as cramp – and Stoinis’ fine day continued as he added three wickets. Nathan Ellis, who had been selected ahead of the rested Pat Cummins, struck in his first over to claim a maiden World Cup wicket.
