Ireland produced a superb batting display to chase down 168 and beat World Champions Australia by three wickets in their second and final T20 World Cup warm-up match in South Africa.

Belfast teenager Amy Hunter showed she was no respecter of reputations as she took 16 off Ellyse Perry's opening over, and that set the tone for a fearless chase.

Hunter struck four boundaries and cleared the ropes once in a hard hit 26 from 14 balls, adding 39 with Gaby Lewis (11) before both perished in the space of four deliveries.

Orla Prendergast (26) kept the momentum going in a breezy cameo, and although Eimear Richardson went cheaply, skipper Laura Delany and Louise LIttle were undaunted.

Delany top-scored with 32 adding 51 with Louise Little (21) to take the Irish in sight of the finishing line. 

Mary Waldron (15) and Leah Paul (11*) struck boundaries at crucial times, to leave Ed Joyce's side needing nine off the last over.

Arlene Kelly smashed a six off the second ball to all but seal the win, and a famous victory was secured with two balls remaining.

It had looked oh so different as the Australians batted, bouncing back from Orla Prendergast (2-19) taking a wicket with the first ball of the game to post 168 for 3.

There were half centuries for Alyssa Healy (62) and Tahlia McGrath (56) who shared a second wicket stand of 135 in 14 overs before both retired.

Perry hit an unbeaten 40 from 20 balls to finish the innings strongly, and no doubt they would have felt 168 was enough at the halfway stage.

However, the Irish showed their courage and talent in a win that will do their confidence a world of good heading into their tournament opener against England on Monday.