as ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 high gear, co-host Sri Lanka they start their campaign at home Ireland. While the Lions are the favorites on paper, their recent 0-3 whitewash against them England With Ireland coming off the back-to-back win in the UAE, it left them scrambling for answers.
The pressure of co-hosting for Sri Lanka is huge. captain Dasun Shanaka leads a lineup with a mix of explosive hitting and “mystery” rotation, but the team’s Achilles heel remains consistency. Pacer’s late dismissal Eshan Malinga Experienced though a blow due to a shoulder injury Pramod Madushan designed as a capable replacement.
Veteran-led Ireland Paul Stirlingthrives on the ‘underdog’ tag. They were famously stunned England in 2022 and have spent the last few years developing a strong spin department. with Harry Tector In the form of his life, if the Irishman slows down the deck of Colombo, a heartthrob will fantasize about their chances.
SL vs IRE, T20 World Cup 2026: Match details
- Date and Time: February 8; 19:00 IST / 1:30 GMT
- Location: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
SL vs IRE Head to Head Record in T20Is
Matches played: 03 | Sri Lanka won: 03 | Ireland won: 0 | No result: 0
R. Premadasa Stadium Ground Report
Premadasa is a traditional ‘spinner’s paradise’. As the game progresses, expect the ball to be caught and turned. Interestingly, the last eight T20Is played at this venue have been won by the chasing side. Captains will likely look to bowl first to avoid the dampness of the first innings. As for weather conditions, the weather will be mostly clear, with a minimal (10%) chance of rain. It will be hot and humid and will test the readiness of the sailors.
Groups
Sri Lanka: Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Janith Perera, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera Madhiranae, Matheathe.
Ireland: Paul Stirling (c), Mark Adair, Ross Adair, Ben Calitz, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Matthew Humphreys, Josh Little, Barry McCarthy, Harry Tector, Tim Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Ben White, Craig Young
SL vs IRE, T20 World Cup 2026: Today’s Match Prediction
Case 1:
- Sri Lanka toss first
- Ireland power play score: 30-40
- Ireland’s total score: 140-150
Case 2:
- Ireland take first in the toss
- Sri Lanka powerplay score: 50-60
- Sri Lanka Total Score: 170-180
Match Result: The bowling team that came first in the competition.
