ICC World Cup: Lions post 163-six against Ireland in SL vs IRE

COLOMBO: Sri Lanka endured a shaky start but managed to recover and post a competitive total of 163 for 6 against Ireland in the sixth match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup being played in Colombo on Sunday.

Earlier, Ireland elected to bowl first and immediately put the hosts under pressure with disciplined bowling after sending the hosts into bat.

During their innings for the SL VS IRE clash, Sri Lanka lost early wickets and struggled to build momentum as Ireland’s bowlers kept the run rate in check. By the 13-over mark, the Lions were reeling at 85 for four, with key batters back in the pavilion.

Openers Pathum Nissanka and Kamil Mishara failed to provide a solid foundation, scoring 24 and 14, respectively. Ireland’s George Dockrell and Barry McCarthy played a crucial role in dismantling Sri Lanka’s top order, denying the batters any room to settle at the crease.

Following them, Kusal Mendis took charge of the innings and displayed patience and control at a time when pressure on them from opponents was at peak. But Dunith Wellalage, who was sent with the intent to support him, was dismissed after contributing 10 runs, which tightened the grip for the visitors even more.

The innings was revived by a counter-attacking partnership between Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis. Kamindu played a brisk knock of 30 off 14 balls, while Kusal anchored the innings with a composed 49 off 38 deliveries, guiding Sri Lanka towards a respectable total.

Sri Lanka eventually finished on 163 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs, setting Ireland a target of 164 runs to win the group-stage encounter.

Earlier in the day, England edged past Nepal in a thrilling contest, securing a narrow four-run victory. Chasing 187, Nepal put up a strong fight but were restricted to just six runs in the final over despite needing ten.

Back in Colombo, Ireland’s strong bowling performance has set the stage for an exciting chase, as Sri Lanka now look to their bowlers to defend the total and keep their World Cup campaign on track.