Sri Lanka Kick Off T20 World Cup Campaign with Commanding Win Over Ireland
In a morale-boosting start to their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, co-hosts Sri Lanka secured a 20-run victory against Ireland at the Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The match, held on February 8, 2026, saw Sri Lanka overcome a sluggish batting performance thanks to key contributions from Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis, followed by a dominant bowling display led by spinners Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga.
Mendis Duo Rescues Sri Lanka's Innings
Sri Lanka's innings got off to a challenging start, with the team struggling to accelerate on a pitch that favored spin and a large outfield. At 104/4 after 16 overs, Ireland's spinners had effectively choked the hosts, raising concerns of an upset. However, the arrival of Kamindu Mendis at No.6 changed the game's momentum dramatically.
Kamindu Mendis, who was not originally part of the T20 World Cup squad and had been dropped for the recent home series against England, played a blistering knock of 44 runs off just 19 balls. His innings included four boundaries and two sixes, injecting much-needed energy into Sri Lanka's total. Notably, he benefited from a dropped catch in the 16th over, which allowed him to capitalize and push the score beyond 160.
At the other end, Kusal Mendis played the anchor role, remaining unbeaten on 56 off 43 deliveries. Although he found it difficult to change gears early on, his steady presence ensured Sri Lanka posted a competitive total of 163/6. Ireland's bowling effort was led by George Dockrell, who took 2/17, but lapses in the field, including missed catches, proved costly.
Spinners Theekshana and Hasaranga Choke Ireland's Chase
Defending 164, Sri Lanka's attack, particularly their spin duo, immediately put pressure on Ireland. Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga exploited the turning track, consistently bowling dot balls and restricting the flow of runs. Ireland's batsmen, including Ross Adair (34) and Harry Tector (40), tried to keep pace but struggled to accelerate against the disciplined spin attack.
The pressure mounted as dot balls accumulated, leading to Ireland being bowled out for 143 in 19.5 overs. Theekshana finished with figures of 3/23, while Hasaranga claimed 3/25, effectively choking Ireland's chase and securing a comfortable win for the hosts. This victory provides Sri Lanka with crucial momentum as they aim to progress in the tournament.
Ireland's Ongoing Challenges in T20 Cricket
For Ireland, this loss highlights their ongoing struggles in T20 World Cups, despite their reputation as giant-killers in past ICC events. The team has faced difficulties in recent years, including financial constraints that led to cancelled fixtures and limited playing opportunities. Captain Paul Stirling has previously emphasized the need for more regular cricket to improve performance.
In preparation for this World Cup, Ireland camped in the subcontinent, playing matches in Bangladesh and Dubai. While their spinners initially showed promise by containing Sri Lanka, fielding errors and an inability to handle pressure in the chase ultimately spoiled their efforts. As a Full Member nation, Ireland continues to work on staying competitive in the fast-evolving T20 landscape.
Brief scores: Sri Lanka 163/6 (Kusal Mendis 56 not out, Kamindu Mendis 44; George Dockrell 2/17) beat Ireland 143 all out in 19.5 overs (Harry Tector 40, Ross Adair 34; Theekshana 3/23, Hasaranga 3/25) by 20 runs.
