SL vs IRE, T20 World Cup: Sri Lanka defeat Ireland by 20 runs

COLOMBO: Hosts Sri Lanka secured a convincing 20-run victory over Ireland in the sixth clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at the Premadasa Stadium on Tuesday, successfully defending a modest total of 163.

Ireland won the toss and elected to bowl first, putting immediate pressure on the hosts with disciplined bowling. Sri Lanka struggled early, losing wickets at regular intervals as Ireland’s bowlers kept the scoring rate in check.

Openers Pathum Nissanka (24) and Kamil Mishara (14) failed to provide a solid start. George Dockrell and Barry McCarthy led Ireland’s bowling attack, dismantling Sri Lanka’s top order and denying the batters any chance to settle.

The innings was steadied by Kusal Mendis, who played a patient knock of 56 not out off 43 balls. He was well supported by Kamindu Mendis, whose explosive 44 off just 19 deliveries lifted Sri Lanka to a competitive total. However, contributions from the lower order were limited, with Dunith Wellalage (10), Pavan Rathnayake (5), and skipper Dasun Shanaka, who was dismissed for a duck, failing to add momentum.

Despite Ireland’s confidence heading into the chase, Sri Lanka’s bowlers turned the game on its head.

Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana delivered match-winning spells, claiming three wickets each and applying relentless pressure on Ireland’s batting lineup.

For Ireland, Ross Adair top-scored with 34 off 23 balls, while Harry Tector added 40 off 34 in the middle order. Captain Paul Stirling had a disappointing outing, managing just six runs. The remaining batters failed to make meaningful contributions, and Ireland fell short at 143.

Sri Lanka’s pace attack also played its part, with Matheesha Pathirana picking up two wickets and Dushmantha Chameera claiming one, sealing a comprehensive victory for the Lions.

ENG VS NEP

Earlier in the day, England edged past Nepal in a thrilling encounter, securing a narrow four-run win after restricting Nepal to just six runs in the final over while defending 187.

INDIA vs USA

The INDIA vs USA clash saw the host team gaining a stunning victory, defeating their opponents by 132-8 in their third clash of the ICC T20 World Cup. The night belonged to the Indian skipper, who led from the front with a classy 84 off 49 balls.

WI VS SCO

The Second clash of the T20 World Cup saw WI overhauling Scotland, crushing them all at 147 in 18.5 overs to register their victory, after the West Indies posted 182 for five in the ICC T20 clash on Saturday.

PAK VS NL

The ICC Mega Cricket Event 2026 began when Pakistan took on NL on Friday. Pakistan won the tournament opener by three wickets after chasing 147 for seven wickets.