Online Reporter
SRI Lanka thumped Ireland by 20 runs in their first match of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 in Colombo yesterday.
After posting 163/6, Sri Lanka dismissed the rivals for just 143 in 19.5 overs.
Harry Tector (40) and Ross Adair (34) were the top contributors for the Irish side. Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga took three wickets each for the co-host.
Earlier, Kusal Mendis scored an unbeaten 56 runs off 43 balls, laced with 5 fours. On the other hand, Kamindu Mendis amassed 44 runs off 19 deliveries, including 4 boundaries and 2 maximums.
George Dockrell and Barry McCarthy picked up two wickets each.
Sri Lanka and Ireland are in the same group B along with Zimbabwe, Oman and Australia.
Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka said: “Well-earned victory . . . Very happy about the overall performance.
“The start was a bit of a struggle but Kusal held it in the end, with Kamindu’s cameo the turning point.
“He batted like he was on a different wicket. Really happy with his comeback and expect a lot from him in the com-ing games.
“I expected the wicket to be flatter with the grass left on the wicket. Initially thought toss will play a crucial part but it helped us in the second phase — it slowed down a bit.
“The confidence from the bowling unit, it carries from the last game. Wanindu got a problem with his hamstring – hopefully it will not be serious. Maheesh bowled well in the middle overs.” — Zimpapers Sports Hub/ Agencies
