English press relish Australia's T20 exit

London:

The English press reacted with glee on Tuesday to the news that Ricky Ponting's Australia team was knocked out of the World Twenty20, ahead of next month's Ashes series between the two countries.

"Even Ireland make the Super 8s but Ricky's boys crash out as wallybies," said the Sun tabloid, reflecting a surprising day for the tournament that saw mighty Australia dumped but Ireland stay in after beating Bangladesh.

"What do you call an Aussie at the Twenty20? A spectator," joked the Daily Mirror, after what was Australia's fifth successive Twenty20 defeat.

One commentator wrote: "Since they touched down in England 12 days ago, Australia's tour has gone exactly according to plan... England's plan."

Australia, the reigning Test and World Cup champions, were sent packing from the World Twenty20 after suffering a six-wicket defeat by Sri Lanka in a crucial group C game at Trent Bridge on Monday.

They now turn their attention to retaining the Ashes in the five-Test series against England starting next month. "The Aussies now have two weeks to fill before the Ashes tour begins. So throw another shrimp on the barbie, Ricky!" the Sun mocked.

The Daily Express also remarked on how the Australians would spend their time, suggesting a theme park or even the London Eye, saying there was only so much "net practice and thumb-twiddling" a team can do.