🏏ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026:M 6: SL vs Ireland, Colombo 🏏 - Page 2

Sri Lanka may tweak their balance by adding an extra batter, with all-rounder Janith Liyanage a strong contender for inclusion. Kamindu Mendis and former captain Charith Asalanka are expected to contest one middle-order spot, while Dasun Shanaka leads the side and will look to influence the game with both bat and ball.

Read more at: https://www.oneindia.com/sports/cricket/sri-lanka-vs-ireland-group-b-t20-world-cup-2026-live-match-details-and-preview-011-7992071.html

Group B venue and records The historic R. Premadasa Stadium has not been a happy hunting ground for Sri Lanka in T20 internationals. Across the years, Sri Lanka have managed only 8 wins while suffering 24 defeats at this venue, a record that adds another layer of challenge as the co-hosts try to build early momentum in this ICC T20 World Cup 2026 home campaign.

Ireland, still dealing with memories of their winless ICC T20 World Cup 2024 campaign, are searching for a fresh start in Group B match no 6. Former Gujarat Titans pacer Josh Little, the only Ireland player with IPL experience, is not guaranteed to start because of recent form and fitness concerns, leaving team management weighing Little against Barry McCarthy for a pace slot.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference in Colombo, Dasun Shanaka reflected on the England series and the squad’s fitness heading into ICC T20 World Cup 2026. "I think even though we lost that series 0–3, we had a chance to win the second match. But I wasn't really satisfied with the result. In the other two matches, we competed well. But I know that saying we competed is not an excuse. So, when it comes to this tournament, all the players are in good physical condition. Most of them had several niggles earlier, and we know those things shouldn't be repeated here," Dasun Shanaka said in the pre-match press conference in Colombo. "What's more important is understanding the importance of this tournament and playing well, because everyone has the goal of performing better. This is a World Cup being played in our country. So, I think the first match against Ireland is very important to build that momentum going forward. All the players are hopeful of playing well. I think we will give a good performance tomorrow," Shanaka added. With Sri Lanka seeking a reset at a difficult home venue and Ireland hoping to move past a winless ICC T20 World Cup 2024, Group B match no 6 shapes as a vital early test. The result in Colombo on February 8 could strongly influence both teams’ confidence and path through the rest of ICC T20 World Cup 2026.