The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is set to begin, with co-hosts Sri Lanka starting their home campaign against Ireland. Although Sri Lanka is favored, their recent 0-3 loss to England has raised concerns. Meanwhile, Ireland comes off a successful series in the UAE.
Sri Lanka faces considerable pressure as co-hosts. Captain Dasun Shanaka leads a team known for powerful hitting and skilled spinners, but they struggle with consistency. The late withdrawal of pacer Eshan Malinga due to injury is a setback, though experienced player Pramod Madushan has stepped in as a replacement.
Ireland, under the leadership of veteran Paul Stirling, embraces the ‘underdog’ status. They made headlines by defeating England in 2022 and have built a strong spin department over the years. With Harry Tector in excellent form, Ireland could seize an opportunity for an upset if the pitch slows down.
SL vs IRE, T20 World Cup 2026: Match details
- Date and Time: February 8; 7:00 pm IST / 1:30 pm GMT
- Venue: 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 Pitch Report
The Premadasa Stadium offers conditions favorable for spinners. The ball is expected to grip and turn as the match progresses. Notably, the last eight T20Is at this venue have been won by the team batting second. Captains might prefer to bowl first to avoid the humidity during the first innings. Weather conditions are anticipated to be mostly clear, with only a 10% chance of rain. It will be hot and humid, challenging the seamers’ endurance.
Squads
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, Matheesha Pathirana, Pramod Madushan
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: Match Prediction
Case 1:
- Sri Lanka wins the toss and bowls first
- Ireland’s power play score: 30-40
- Ireland’s total score: 140-150
Case 2:
- Ireland wins the toss and bowls first
- Sri Lanka’s power play score: 50-60
- Sri Lanka’s total score: 170-180
Match result: Team bowling first to win the contest.
