Sri Lanka start as slight favourites in this SL vs IRE match prediction, with a 53% win probability, largely due to home conditions at Colombo and a spin-heavy attack perfectly suited for the Premadasa surface. Wanindu Hasaranga’s middle-overs control and Pathum Nissanka’s consistency at the top give them the tactical edge, though Ireland’s recent winning form keeps this close. This preview covers pitch behavior, weather impact, playing XI outlooks, and fantasy cricket tips to help you assess today’s Sri Lanka vs Ireland clash.
Sri Lanka vs Ireland Match Details
Match | Sri Lanka vs Ireland | 6th Match | ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 |
Date | 08/02/2026 (Sunday) |
Time | BDT 7:30 PM / PKT 6:30 PM / INR 7:00 PM |
Format | T20 |
Venue | R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo |
Recent performance | Sri Lanka – A W L L L Ireland – W W L W W |
Live Streaming Details | Click here to watch the Live Stream on Sports Live Hub (SLH) |
R Premadasa Stadium Pitch Report
R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
The R Premadasa Stadium pitch report traditionally hints at slower surfaces where cutters, spinners, and change-of-pace bowlers thrive. The square tends to grip as the match progresses, making stroke play tougher against quality spin. Scores around the 170–180 range are competitive, but with clean hitting early, teams can push toward 190+. Expect the powerplay to be the best time to score before the surface slows and brings bowlers like Hasaranga and Theekshana into play.
Weather Report
The weather report suggests high humidity with a real threat of tropical showers. Dew could become a major second-innings factor, reducing grip for spinners and making yorkers crucial at the death. Fielding might get tricky under lights, and captains may prefer chasing if conditions stay sticky. Interruptions or shortened overs can’t be ruled out, so adaptability will be key for both sides.
SL vs IRE Head-to-Head Records
Matches Played | 3 |
SL Won | 3 |
IRE Won | 0 |
Tied | 0 |
No Result | 0 |
First-ever Fixture | June 14, 2009 |
Most-recent Fixture | October 23, 2022 |
Sri Lanka vs Ireland Team Preview & Squads
Sri Lanka
Dasun Shanaka’s captaincy remains central to this Sri Lanka vs Ireland preview. He offers tactical flexibility with both bat and ball and often adjusts matchups smartly in the middle overs. However, Sri Lanka are coming off a 12-run loss against England, which exposed finishing issues. Shanaka’s all-round contribution will be vital to stabilise crunch moments.
The batting unit relies heavily on Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis to set the tempo. Nissanka’s predicted role as the top run-scorer reflects his ability to pace innings rather than swing blindly. Kamil Mishara and Charith Asalanka add depth, but Sri Lanka need better conversion after decent starts. A steady powerplay could allow them to aim for the projected 190+ total.
Bowling remains their strongest suit. Wanindu Hasaranga is the game-changer, particularly on slow Colombo tracks. Theekshana’s variations and Pathirana’s pace provide variety, while Shanaka chips in as a seam option. If the spinners dictate the middle overs, SL control the game.
Sri Lanka Squads
Sri Lanka Squads
Dasun Shanaka, Charith Asalanka, Dushmantha Chameera, Wanindu Hasaranga, Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Pathum Nissanka, Matheesha Pathirana, Kusal Perera, Pramod Madushan, Pavan Rathnayake, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage
Ireland
Paul Stirling leads an Ireland side riding confidence after a convincing win over UAE. In this SL vs IRE team preview, Stirling’s aggressive mindset often sets the tone. He prefers attacking fields and backs his batters to chase big totals, which suits T20 cricket perfectly.
Harry Tector anchors the batting and is predicted to be Ireland’s top run-scorer. Alongside Lorcan Tucker and Curtis Campher, Ireland have enough middle-order stability to recover from early setbacks. George Dockrell’s all-round impact, both with quick runs and useful overs, makes him a tactical asset in close games.
Bowling-wise, Josh Little provides left-arm pace and wicket-taking ability up front, while Matthew Humphreys brings spin control. Gareth Delany and Dockrell offer additional options, allowing Ireland to mix matchups. Their attack is balanced enough to keep Sri Lanka below par if early breakthroughs come.
Ireland Squads
Ireland Squads
Paul Stirling, Mark Adair, Ross Adair, Ben Calitz, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Matthew Humphreys, Josh Little, Barry McCarthy, Harry Tector, Tim Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Ben White, Craig Young
SL vs IRE Prediction
Event | Sri Lanka | Ireland |
Toss Winner | Sri Lanka | – |
Player of the Match | Pathum Nissanka | – |
Top Run Scorer | Pathum Nissanka | Harry Tector |
Top Wicket Taker | Wanindu Hasaranga | Josh Little |
Most Sixes | Pathum Nissanka | Harry Tector |
Predicted Score | 190+ | 180+ |
Win Probability | 53% | 47% |
Sri Lanka vs Ireland Winning Prediction
Sri Lanka hold the edge in this Sri Lanka vs Ireland winning prediction, with a 53% win chance thanks to home familiarity and a spin attack tailored for Colombo’s slowing pitch. If Hasaranga controls the middle overs and Nissanka anchors the chase or sets the base, SL should narrowly outlast Ireland. Can Ireland’s recent momentum upset the hosts? Follow JeetBuzz for live updates, stats, and sharp analysis throughout the match.
FAQ: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 6th Match
Q1: What time does Sri Lanka vs Ireland start?
The match begins at 7:00 PM IST.
Q2: Where can I watch the live streaming of SL vs IRE?
You can stream it via Sports Live Hub (SLH).
Q3: Who is the key player to watch today?
Pathum Nissanka is expected to be Sri Lanka’s main batting threat.
Disclaimer: This cricket prediction reflects the author’s personal insights and analysis. We encourage readers to review the points shared and draw their own conclusions.
