Ireland and Oman meet in a must-win Group encounter as both sides look to revive their campaigns at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. With both teams still searching for their first points, Match 22 at Colombo carries significant qualification implications.
Match details
Venue: Sinhalese Sports Club
Date: Saturday, February 14
Time: 11:00 AM IST, 10:30 AM PST, 05:30 AM GMT
Team overviews
Ireland enter the contest under pressure after suffering defeats in their opening two matches. The side currently sits fourth on the points table without a win, but their depth and experience at the international level keep them competitive. Led by Paul Stirling, Ireland continue to rely on a strong top order and a balanced bowling attack that features both pace and spin options. Despite the slow start, the Irish camp remains confident of turning performances into results as the tournament progresses.
Oman, captained by Jatinder Singh, face a similar situation. They also lost both of their matches so far and need a complete performance to stay alive in the competition. Oman have shown glimpses of promise, particularly with the bat, but they require consistency across all departments. Their batting lineup features experienced campaigners, while the bowling unit aims to exploit any assistance from the surface in Colombo.
Key players
For Ireland, George Dockrell stands out as a key figure. The left-arm spinner has already picked up three wickets in two games and continues to play a crucial role through the middle overs. His ability to control run flow and strike at important moments often shapes Ireland’s bowling performances. Paul Stirling and Harry Tector also remain central to Ireland’s batting plans, especially in setting or chasing competitive totals.
Oman will once again look towards Kusal Mohammad Nadeem with the bat. He announced his form with a half-century in his only appearance so far and brings valuable experience to the middle order. Jatinder Singh’s leadership and contributions at the top remain important, while the bowling group must deliver tighter spells to apply pressure on Ireland’s batters.
Head-to-head record
Ireland and Oman have met seven times in T20 internationals. Ireland hold a clear advantage with five wins, while Oman have claimed victory twice. The first meeting between the two sides took place on September 12, 2007, and their most recent clash came on February 22, 2022. Historical results favor Ireland, but current tournament form suggests a closely fought contest.
Pitch report
The Sinhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo has hosted 10 T20I matches to date. Teams chasing have won six of those games, while sides batting first have managed only three victories. The statistics indicate a preference for chasing, especially as the match progresses. The afternoon surface is expected to assist spin bowlers, making control and variation vital for both teams during the middle overs.
Probable match scenarios
If Ireland bat first, they will aim for a steady powerplay before accelerating through the middle with calculated aggression. Their bowlers will then try to use the spin-friendly conditions to restrict Oman. If Oman bat first, early partnerships will prove crucial, with the middle order tasked to post a defendable total. Chasing sides may hold a tactical advantage, particularly if the pitch slows down later in the game.
Probable playing XIs
Ireland: Paul Stirling (captain), Ross Adair, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (wicketkeeper), Curtis Campher, Benjamin Calitz, George Dockrell, Gareth Delany, Mark Adair, Barry McCarthy, Matthew Humphreys.
Oman: Jatinder Singh (captain), Aamir Kaleem, Hammad Mirza, Wasim Ali, Mohammad Nadeem, Jiten Ramanandi, Vinayak Shukla (wicketkeeper), Sufyan Mehmood, Nadeem Khan, Shah Faisal, Jay Odedra.
Live streaming and broadcast
In India, the match will air on JioStar Network television channels and stream live on the JioHotstar app and website. Viewers in Pakistan, the UK, and Australia can watch the game through official ICC broadcast partners on television and their respective digital platforms. Global audiences can follow live coverage via ICC-authorised broadcasters and streaming services available in their regions.
Match prediction
Ireland enter the contest as slight favorites due to their stronger head-to-head record and greater international exposure. However, Oman’s recent batting performances suggest they can challenge Ireland if they execute their plans effectively. A disciplined bowling display and smart use of spin could tilt the match, but Ireland’s overall balance gives them a narrow edge in this crucial encounter.
