Sri Lanka Open T20 World Cup with 20-Run Win Over Ireland

Sri Lanka got their ICC T20 World Cup 2026 campaign off to a confident start with a 20-run victory over Ireland in their opening Group match played in Colombo.

Batting first after winning the toss, the hosts posted a competitive total of 163 for six, built around a composed and unbeaten half-century from Kusal Mendis. Anchoring the innings, Mendis struck 56 off 43 deliveries, finding the boundary five times while expertly guiding the run rate through the middle overs. He was well supported by Kamindu Mendis, who provided late momentum with a rapid 44 from just 19 balls, an innings highlighted by four fours and two sixes that lifted Sri Lanka to a challenging score.

Ireland’s bowlers managed to keep things relatively tight early on, with George Dockrell and Barry McCarthy claiming two wickets apiece to prevent the Sri Lankan innings from fully running away.

In reply, Ireland showed early promise but struggled to maintain consistency against a disciplined bowling attack. Harry Tector top-scored with 40, while Ross Adair contributed 34, but regular wickets stalled their chase. Sri Lanka’s spin duo proved decisive, with Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga sharing six wickets between them, each finishing with three scalps.

Despite brief resistance, Ireland were eventually bowled out for 143 in 19.5 overs, falling short of the target as Sri Lanka closed out the match efficiently.

The win gives the co-hosts a valuable boost at the start of the tournament, underlining their strength at home and setting a positive tone for the matches ahead.