SL vs IRE, T20 World Cup 2026 Match Prediction: Who will win today’s match between Sri Lanka and Ireland?

as 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Co-host and go into high gear Sri Lanka kick off their campaign at home Ireland. While the Lions are the favorites on paper, they’ve recently outscored their opponents 0-3 England Let them search for answers while Ireland come in with the momentum of a series win in the UAE.

For Sri Lanka, the pressure as a co-host is enormous. team leader darsang shanaka Led a team that mixed explosive batting and “mysterious” spin, but the team’s Achilles’ heel remained consistency. late exclusion pacer Eshan Malinga Since shoulder injury is a blow, although experienced Pramod Madhushan A capable replacement has been selected.

Ireland, led by veterans Paul Sterlingthrives on the “loser” label. They are notoriously shocked England In 2022, we have been working hard over the past few years to build a strong spin department. and Harry Turko With the form he’s living in, the Irish will fantasize about their chances of an upset if the Colombo deck slows down.

SL vs IRE, T20 World Cup 2026: Match Details

Date and time: February 8; 7:00 pm (IST) / 1:30 pm (GMT)
Place: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo

SL vs IRE, head-to-head record in T20Is

Competitions participated in: 03 | Sri Lanka wins: 03 | Ireland wins: 0 | No results: 0

R. Premadasa Stadium Promotion Report

Premadasa is a traditional “spinner’s paradise”. Expect the ball to grip and turn as the game progresses. Interestingly, the last eight T20Is at this venue have been won by the chasing side. The captains may bowl first to avoid a damp first innings. Weather-wise, it will be mostly sunny with a very small (10%) chance of rain. The weather was hot and humid, testing the physical fitness of the seamers.

squad

Sri Lanka: Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Janith Perera, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Pramod Madushan

Ireland: Paul Stirling (c), Mark Adair, Ross Adair, Ben Kalitz, Curtis Campfer, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Matthew Humphreys, Josh Little, Barry McCarthy, Harry Tech, Tim Tech, Lorcan Tucker, Ben White, Craig Young

Also read: Sri Lanka Cricket recalls 2009 Lahore terror attack, confronts PCB over India’s boycott of 2026 T20 World Cup matches