World T20: Australia beat West Indies by 17 runs (D/L Method)

Australia took full points from both their group games when they beat West Indies by 17 runs by the D/L method in a match halted by rain played at Colombo. (All Photos AFP)

Opting to bat first, West Indies got off to the explosive start they wanted as birthday boy Chris Gayle smashed 54 runs of 33 balls that contained 5 fours and 4 sixes.

Marlon Samuels provided Gayle excellent support as he stroked a fifty from just 32 balls as they unleashed carnage on the Australian bowlers who had no idea where to pitch their deliveries.

Dwayne Bravo gave the innings the finishing boost it needed as he hit 27 quick runs to help West Indies finish off with a daunting 191/8 in their 20 overs. It would no doubt be a test for the Aussie batting line-up.

David Warner came to the party early as he smashed 22 runs off the second over of the innings. Ravi Rampaul was taken apart by the Aussie which was a clear statement that they were going for it.

Shane Watson picked up the mantle after Warner's departure and was looking in sublime form in his unbeaten 41 from 24 balls which included 3 huge sixes. This time it was the Windies bowlers who were running for cover.

Michael Hussey once again showed that age is just a number as he scored a fast 28 off 19 balls in a 70 run partnership for the second wicket with Watson to take Australia to 100/1 in 9.1 overs at which point they were threatening to make light work of West Indies' total.

But an interesting game was brought to a premature end by the rain pouring down. With no chance of play resuming Australia won by the D/L method as they were ahead of their par score of 83. So Australia top their group and the Windies will have to pull up their socks when they face off against Ireland on Monday in Colombo.