Sri Lanka and Ireland will begin their ICC T20 World Cup 2026 journey in Match 6 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on February 8.
Sri Lanka’s early exit from the 2024 group stage was disappointing. This time, with favorable conditions, they aim to advance further.
Ireland has improved over time, bolstered by experience from playing against higher-ranked teams. Dasun Shanaka will lead Sri Lanka, while Paul Stirling will captain Ireland.
SL vs IRE Match Details
Pitch Report
The R. Premadasa Stadium is known for being favorable to bowlers, and recent rain is expected to slow the pitch. Spinners might benefit from the potentially uneven bounce.
SL vs IRE head-to-head records in T20I
Sri Lanka has won all three of their T20I matches against Ireland.
SL vs IRE Probable Best Performers
Key batter to watch: Pathum Nissanka
Pathum Nissanka will be crucial for the batting lineup, looking to leverage local conditions. He has over 2400 runs in 84 matches and maintains a strike rate of 127.3 in T20Is.
Key bowler to watch: Wanindu Hasaranga
Wanindu Hasaranga is expected to be a major threat for Ireland in this match. Given the conditions favoring spinners, he will be an essential part of Sri Lanka’s strategy.
SL vs IRE Match Prediction ICC T20 World Cup 2026
Sri Lanka holds the advantage with home conditions, a strong batting order, and a formidable spin attack. Ireland, while competitive, will need a standout performance to overcome the hosts, especially with the pitch favoring spin.
SL vs IRE Probable XIs
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamindu Mendis, Pavan Rathnayake, Dasun Shanaka (c), Maheesh Theekshana, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Matheesha Pathirana, Dushmantha Chameera
Ireland: Paul Stirling (c), Lorcan Tucker (wk), Ross Adair, Harry Tector, Curtis Campher, George Dockrell, Gareth Delany, Ben Calitz, Mark Adair, Barry McCarthy, Josh Little
