The R. Premadasa Stadium was buzzing as co-hosts Sri Lanka officially launched their tournament journey with a hard-fought 20-run win over a resilient Ireland side. In the Sri Lanka vs Ireland T20 World Cup clash, it was the “Mendis duo” with the bat and the spin twins with the ball that proved to be the difference for the Lions.
Kamindu Mendis’ Firecracker Inning Rescues Sri Lanka
After being put in to bat by Ireland captain Paul Stirling, Sri Lanka struggled to find momentum during the middle overs. At 86/4 in the 14th over, the home crowd was growing anxious. However, Kamindu Mendis completely shifted the momentum, smashing a scintillating 44 off just 19 balls at a strike rate of 231.
Kamindu found a steady partner in Kusal Mendis, who played a composed anchor role to finish unbeaten on 56 off 43 balls*. Their 67-run partnership for the fifth wicket propelled Sri Lanka to a competitive 163/6, despite a disciplined opening spell from Ireland’s George Dockrell (2/17).
Ireland’s Solid Start and Mid-Innings Collapse
Chasing 164, Ireland looked firmly in control for the first half of their innings. Ross Adair (34) and Harry Tector (40) batted with intent, taking Ireland to a comfortable 105/2. With 60 runs needed off the final six overs and eight wickets in hand, an upset seemed to be on the cards.
However, the introduction of Sri Lanka’s premier spinners triggered a dramatic collapse. Ireland lost their last eight wickets for just 38 runs as the pitch began to grip and turn.
The Spin Web: Hasaranga and Theekshana Dominate
Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana proved why they are considered one of the most dangerous duos in T20 cricket. Theekshana broke the back of the Irish middle order with two wickets in two balls, while Hasaranga’s googlies proved impossible to read.
Both spinners finished with identical figures of 3/23 and 3/25 respectively. Matheesha Pathirana wrapped up the tail in the final over, bowling Matthew Humphreys to bundle out Ireland for 143 with just one ball remaining.
Match Summary: SL vs IRE
| Team | Score | Top Performer |
| Sri Lanka | 163/6 (20) | Kusal Mendis (56*), Kamindu Mendis (44) |
| Ireland | 143 (19.5) | Harry Tector (40), Ross Adair (34) |
Result: Sri Lanka won by 20 runs.
Player of the Match: Kamindu Mendis
