SL vs IRE T20 WC: Live streaming, pitch report, Playing 11 and other details

Sri Lanka, led by Dasun Shanaka, will look to kick off their ICC T20 World Cup 2026 campaign on a winning note when they face Paul Stirling’s Ireland in the tournament’s sixth match at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday, February 8.

The hosts head into the contest with a squad well suited to subcontinental conditions, boasting a potent spin attack and a batting line-up capable of exploiting familiar home surfaces. With experience across departments, Sri Lanka will aim to make early gains and set the tone for their campaign.

Ireland, meanwhile, will be eyeing a potential upset against the former champions. Their chances hinge largely on the top order, spearheaded by the hard-hitting Stirling, while negotiating Sri Lanka’s strong spin bowling will be crucial to staying in the contest. The clash is expected to be an engaging battle between two sides eager to make a strong start.

Sri Lanka vs Ireland: Predicted Playing 11
Sri Lanka playing 11 (probable):Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka (c), Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Dushmantha Chameera.
Ireland playing 11 (probable):Paul Stirling (c), Ross Adair, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Harry Tector, Curtis Campher, Ben Calitz, George Dockrell, Gareth Delany, Mark Adair, Josh Little, Matthew Humphreys.

SL vs IRE Pitch Report and Weather Forecast

The R. Premadasa Stadium has traditionally offered assistance to bowlers, and recent rainfall is expected to slow the surface down even more. With the bounce likely to be uneven, spinners could play a decisive role in these conditions.

Head-to-Head Record Between Sri Lanka and Ireland

Matches Played	SL	IRE
3	3	0

SL vs IRE Live Streaming

The Sri Lanka vs Ireland match in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 will be telecast live on the Star Sports Network in India.

Fans can also watch the live streaming of the match on the JioHotstar app and website in India.

SL vs IRE Match Prediction

Sri Lanka come into the match with the edge of home conditions, a dependable batting line-up and a potent spin attack. Ireland, though a competitive side, will likely need a special performance to overcome the hosts, especially with the conditions expected to strongly favour spin.