Australia proved too strong for Ireland in their match at Sydney Parade, winning by 88 runs.

Batting first, the Aussie posted 236 for 5 in their 45 overs, with Tony Daly top-scoring with 58, while there were runs too for Tony Kratzmann (40), and 20s for Andrew Sharp, Guy Randell, Glen Giddings and Damien Meek.

Captains at the toss with sponsor Paddy Halpin of Brother Bean, while the jits are from BuaKit.

Shahid Iqbal picked up two wickets, while there was one apiece for Derek Heasley, Sadaat Gull and Dan Van Zyl.

The irish reply didn't get off to a great start, with former Irish internationals Angus Dunlop (19), Alan Lewis (10), and Peter Davy (3) among the wickets as they slumped to 76 for 7.

Derek Heasley thumped three sixes and two fours in a rapid 28, while Dan Van Zyl (31) and Dara Armstrong (15*) ensured some respectabilty in a last wicket stand of 41 as they were all out for 148.

Brett James and Simon Waddington each took three wickets, while there were two apiece for Grant Dew and Glenn Giddings in their comprehensive win.