Ireland face Zimbabwe in Match 32 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in a crucial Group B showdown. Zimbabwe enter this match with strong momentum and a place in the Super Eight within reach, while Ireland must win to keep their own qualification hopes alive.
Match details
Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele, Sri Lanka
Date: Tuesday, 17 February 2026
Time: 15:00 IST | 14:30 PKT | 09:30 GMT
Team overviews
Ireland have shown mixed form in this tournament. They began with two successive losses to Sri Lanka and Australia before bouncing back with a commanding win over Oman. That victory, powered by an explosive 94* from wicketkeeper‑batter Lorcan Tucker, boosted their confidence and net run rate, putting them in a must‑win position heading into this match. Ireland’s batting has had fluctuations, with contributions needed from multiple batters, while their bowling attack must remain disciplined to contain Zimbabwe’s power hitters.
Zimbabwe enter this game on the back of impressive performances, including an upset win over Australia that strengthened their Super Eight ambitions. They have showcased depth in both batting and bowling, with key players contributing consistently. Zimbabwe sit comfortably in the points table and a win here would secure their place in the next round. Their balanced lineup blends experienced performers and young talent, allowing them to adapt to different match situations.
Key players
Ireland will rely heavily on Lorcan Tucker. His unbeaten 94 against Oman underlined his ability to anchor innings and score quickly under pressure. Harry Tector and Ross Adair will need to provide solid starts to give Ireland a platform. On the bowling front, Matthew Humphreys and Mark Adair have been effective in past T20Is and must strike regularly here.
Zimbabwe derive strength from Brian Bennett, who has been in excellent form with the bat. Captain Sikandar Raza offers experience and power in the middle order, while Ryan Burl and Tadiwanashe Marumani add depth to the batting lineup. Bowlers Blessing Muzarabani and Brad Evans have been among the wicket‑takers for Zimbabwe, providing crucial breakthroughs in key moments.
Head‑to‑head record
Ireland and Zimbabwe have played 18 T20Is against each other historically, with both sides winning eight matches each and two games ending tied or without result. This balanced head‑to‑head reflects how competitive encounters between these teams have often been.
Pitch report
The Pallekele surface generally favours batters, with scores above 150 common in T20 cricket at this venue. The pitch provides good pace and carry early on, allowing top and middle order batters to play their shots once settled. Bowlers will need strong discipline in line and length, as any loose deliveries are likely to be punished. While there may be some movement for the quicks initially, conditions overall lean toward batting.
Probable match scenarios
If Ireland bat first, they will aim to set a competitive total above 170 to put pressure on Zimbabwe’s chase. A strong start from the top order followed by aggressive middle overs batting will be crucial. Their bowlers then must strike early to disrupt Zimbabwe’s lineup.
If Zimbabwe bat first, they can capitalize on batting‑friendly conditions to post a big total, relying on their in‑form top batters to accelerate. Ireland’s bowlers will be tested to contain runs and take regular wickets. In the chase, Zimbabwe’s balanced batting depth offers them flexibility in pacing their innings.
Probable XIs
Ireland: Lorcan Tucker (c & wk), Ross Adair, Harry Tector, Tim Tector, Sam Topping, Ben Calitz, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Matthew Humphreys, Josh Little (Probable XI based on World Cup squad).
Zimbabwe: Sikandar Raza (c), Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Dion Myers, Ryan Burl, Ben Curran, Clive Madande (wk), Tony Munyonga, Blessing Muzarabani, Graeme Cremer, Wellington Masakadza (Probable XI based on World Cup squad).
Live streaming and broadcast
In India, official broadcast coverage is on the Star Sports Network with live streaming available on JioHotstar (App & Website). In Pakistan, viewers can follow the match on channels carrying Star Sports feed and digital apps such as Tapmad and ARY Zapp where available. United Kingdom audiences can watch via Sky Sports and associated streaming platforms. In Australia, coverage may include Prime Video and local sports broadcasters carrying T20 World Cup feeds. Global viewers can access the match through ICC.tv or official regional partners offering live streams and commentary feeds.
Match prediction
Zimbabwe begin this encounter as slight favourites given their strong form and momentum in the tournament. Their balanced batting order and consistent bowling options give them an edge, but Ireland’s recent high‑scoring win over Oman demonstrates they can challenge any team on their day. Expect a competitive contest where Zimbabwe’s experience may just tip the scales in their favour, though Ireland can upset if their top order fires early.
