Sri Lanka begin their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against Ireland at Colombo, aiming to use home conditions to secure an early advantage. Ireland arrive with recent momentum and will look to challenge the co-hosts in a contest that carries importance for both teams’ group ambitions.
Match Details:
Match name: Sri Lanka vs Ireland, Match 6
Tournament: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
Date: Sunday, February 8, 2026
Venue: R Premadasa International Stadium, Colombo
Start time IST: 7:00 PM
Start time PST: 6:30 PM
Start time GMT: 2:00 PM
Team overview: Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka enter the tournament looking for stability and momentum after a difficult recent series against England. Despite the results, the management has retained a largely unchanged squad, showing confidence in continuity and long-term planning. Dasun Shanaka leads the side and will focus on improving consistency with the bat while ensuring the bowling unit applies pressure through the middle overs. The batting lineup features Pathum Nissanka and Kamil Mishara at the top, followed by experienced names such as Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka, and Kamindu Mendis. Sri Lanka’s strength lies in their all-round balance, with Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana offering control and wicket-taking options, while Matheesha Pathirana and Dushmantha Chameera provide pace and variation. Playing at home, Sri Lanka aim to use familiarity with conditions to build confidence early in the tournament.
Team overview: Ireland
Ireland come into the World Cup with encouraging results from recent T20 internationals, having secured victories against Italy and the UAE. Paul Stirling captains a side that blends experience with emerging talent, and the team will target consistency at the global level after a winless campaign in the previous edition. Ireland’s batting revolves around Stirling at the top, supported by Ross Adair, Lorcan Tucker, and Harry Tector, who has been their most reliable run-scorer in recent times. The middle order includes Curtis Campher and George Dockrell, offering flexibility and depth. With the ball, Josh Little and Mark Adair lead the pace attack, while Gareth Delany and Mathew Humphreys add spin options. Ireland approach this match with belief and the intent to challenge higher-ranked teams.
Head-to-head record
Sri Lanka and Ireland have met three times in T20 internationals. Sri Lanka have won all three encounters, while Ireland are yet to register a victory against them in this format. The record gives Sri Lanka a psychological edge, although Ireland will view this fixture as an opportunity to change that trend.
Pitch report: R Premadasa International Stadium, Colombo
The surface at the R Premadasa Stadium has offered balanced conditions in recent matches. Batters have been able to score freely once set, while bowlers, especially spinners, have found success during the middle overs. Pacers can extract bounce early, but the pitch tends to flatten as the innings progresses. The average first-innings total at this venue is around 170, making it a competitive ground where execution plays a decisive role.
Weather report
Weather conditions in Colombo are expected to be warm and slightly humid, with some cloud cover during the early part of the match. There is a modest chance of rain, but no major interruptions are currently forecast. Temperatures are likely to range between 28 and 30 degrees Celsius, with humidity levels around 50 to 60 percent.
Probable playing XIs
Sri Lanka probable XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wicketkeeper), Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka (captain), Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Dushmantha Chameera.
Ireland probable XI: Paul Stirling (captain), Ross Adair, Lorcan Tucker (wicketkeeper), Harry Tector, Curtis Campher, Ben Calitz, George Dockrell, Gareth Delany, Mark Adair, Josh Little, Mathew Humphreys.
Players to watch
Kusal Mendis remains central to Sri Lanka’s batting plans. His recent form and ability to accelerate make him a key figure in setting or chasing targets. For Ireland, Harry Tector stands out as their most dependable batter, capable of anchoring the innings and building partnerships under pressure.
Live streaming and broadcast information
In India, the match will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network, with digital streaming available through the JioHotstar app and website. Viewers in Pakistan can follow the game on official ICC broadcast partners via television and authorised digital platforms. In the United Kingdom, licensed sports channels will provide live coverage along with streaming through their official apps. Australian audiences can watch the match on approved sports broadcasters and their streaming services. Global viewers can access coverage through ICC-authorised television networks and digital platforms in their respective regions.
Match scenario and prediction
Sri Lanka hold a clear advantage based on home conditions and a dominant head-to-head record against Ireland. Ireland’s recent form suggests they can remain competitive if their top order settles and the bowlers strike early. Toss decisions may influence strategy, with teams weighing the benefits of chasing under lights. Over the full match, Sri Lanka’s spin depth and familiarity with conditions give them a stronger position to control key phases. Ireland can push the contest deep, but Sri Lanka are expected to start their campaign with a measured win.
