Sammy dazzles to upset Australia

MIRPUR: Defending champions West Indies revived their semi-hopes in the World Twenty20 with a six-wicket win over Australia at Sher-e-Bangla Stadium, Mirpur on Friday, virtually knocking George Bailey´s team out of the race.

The West Indies surpassed Australia´s 178-8 with two balls to spare in a thrilling finish to win their second game in three outings in group two of the Super-10s.

It was Australia´s second successive setback after losing their opening match to Pakistan, and they will now struggle to qualify even if they beat India and Bangladesh in their remaining games.

West-Indies chasing 179 to win were going along well as Gayle got into the act early hammering 53 off 35 balls with 6x4s and 2x6s.

After his dismissal Australia got back into the game with some tight bowling.

Then came together D.Bravo and skipper D.Sammy with WI still needing 49 runs off 3.3 overs.

Some gutsy batting and lusty hitting from D.Sammy saw WI overhaul the required runs with 2 balls to spare. Sammy remained not out on 34 off just 13 balls with 2x4s and 3x6s. D.Bravo did his bit with a 12 ball 27 with 2x4s and 2x6s.

Earlier Australia got to 178 as Glen Maxwell got 45 off 22 balls.