‘It's amazing, kind of emotional’

England's hopes of reaching the T20 World Cup semi-finals suffered a massive blow on Wednesday after the former champions suffered a shock loss to Ireland when rain forced an early finish to their match at Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Chasing 158 for victory, England were 105 for five midway through the 15th over when rain halted play, with Moeen Ali 24 not out and Liam Livingstone on one.

England were five runs behind on the DLS scoring method, handing Ireland a famous victory.

"It's amazing, kind of emotional," said Ireland skipper Andy Balbirnie, who was named player-of-the-match, having led from the front with a top score of 62 off 47 balls.

"To come here (and win) against the tournament favourites is amazing. A few of the fans in the crowd have extended their stay," he continued.
"Our message was to just create chances and we know how this England team like to play, if we take every chance then we would be in with a shot.

"This will do a lot to grow the game back home," Balbirnie added.

"Ireland were excellent, they outplayed us. We made a mistake here and has made it difficult in a tough group," said England captain Jos Buttler.

"Myself getting out first over didn't help, we never managed to get initiative," added Buttler, who was caught behind for a two-ball duck.

Ireland, who have already beaten West Indies at the tournament, produced a disciplined bowling performance to restrict England's big hitters.
England's task only gets more difficult as they face champions Australia at the MCG on Friday.