But the Australians faced an unlikely challenge from the Irish in a high-scoring match that produced 631 runs.

Set to climb a mountain after Australia plundered 340-5 in 50 overs, the Irish boys bowed out from the competition in style. Their brave chase eventually ended at 291-9, an effort no one had expected let alone the Australians.

"We didn't plan well enough to chase such a big target. Otherwise, it could have been a different story," said Ireland captain William Porterfield.

Porterfield (48) and Gary Wilson (44) gave Ireland an ideal start (117-1 in the 20th over) before a middle-order effectively ended the contest despite a valiant 65 by Morgan.

The game was all but over when the Ireland slumped 230-9. But there was still one final twist in the act when Allen Coulter hit a 29-ball 38.

Australia now await the winners of today's second semifinal between Bangladesh and Scotland at Chittagong Divisional Stadium in the March 4 final.

And already the Australians predicted who their opponents would be.

"I'm expecting Bangladesh in the final on March 4," said Australian coach Bennett King during a post-match briefing.

"They are definitely a good side and hopefully it will be an entertaining final."

The Aussie coach however was concerned at the indiscipline shown by his bowlers.

"The batting was fine today but our bowling was not good and that might be something we need to work on before the final," Bennett said.

Earlier, the massive Australian total was built around a century partnership for the first wicket between Tim Paine (45) and Theo Doropoulos (83). One-down Matt Harrison hammered highest 91 off 78 balls that contained 14 boundaries.