Colombo, February 8, 2026: Sri Lanka delivered an extraordinary batting performance to post 163 for 6 in 20 overs against Ireland in their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 encounter at Colombo. The innings showcased a brilliant late surge from Kamindu Mendis and Kusal Mendis, allowing Sri Lanka to set a competitive target of 162 for Ireland.
Early Momentum and Powerplay:
Sri Lanka started cautiously but effectively, reaching 50 for 1 in the first six overs. Openers Pathum Nissanka and Kamil Mishara provided a solid start, with Mishara scoring 14 off 11 balls and Nissanka contributing 21 off 15 balls. The sixth over alone yielded 12 runs, highlighting early boundary-hitting prowess.
However, the middle overs proved challenging as Ireland’s spin duo of George Dockrell and Gareth Delany took control. Between overs 7-15, Sri Lanka did not score a single boundary, scoring only 45 runs in nine overs. Dot balls mounted, and wickets fell at regular intervals. Key dismissals during this phase included Pathum Nissanka and Dunith Wellalage, leaving Sri Lanka in a precarious position at 87 for 4 in 14 overs.
Spin Dominance:
Ireland’s spinners exploited the slow pitch brilliantly. Dockrell removed Nissanka and Wellalage, while Delany broke the crucial partnership of Kamindu Mendis. Sri Lanka struggled to rotate the strike freely and faced increasing pressure as boundaries became scarce.
Late Surge – The Mendis Show:
The innings revival came in the final overs. Kamindu Mendis and Kusal Mendis staged an incredible turnaround, combining for explosive hitting. Kamindu scored 44 off 19 balls, including several towering sixes, while Kusal capitalized on dropped catches to amass 56 off 43 balls.
Overs 16-20 produced 68 runs, including a remarkable 11-ball phase yielding 45 runs, turning the tide decisively in Sri Lanka’s favor. Kamindu Mendis’s sixes and clever placement, along with Kusal’s composed hitting, ensured a formidable total despite the earlier struggles.
Bowling Highlights for Ireland:
Ireland’s fast bowlers, including Barry McCarthy and Mark Adair, struggled to contain the Mendis duo in the death overs. McCarthy bowled a record 11-ball over due to wides and no-balls, further aiding Sri Lanka’s late surge. Despite some early breakthroughs, Ireland could not maintain control in the final overs.
Key Stats & Takeaways:
Sri Lanka’s innings progression:
Overs 1-6: 50/1 | RR 8.33
Overs 7-15: 45/3 | RR 5.00
Overs 16-20: 68/2 | RR 13.60
Kamindu Mendis: 44(19), 4s:4, 6s:2
Kusal Mendis: 56(43), crucial late runs
Ireland dominated middle overs with spin but lost grip at the death
The innings demonstrates Sri Lanka’s ability to recover from middle-over pressure and highlights the importance of finishing skills in T20 cricket. The Mendis brothers’ late blitz not only set a competitive target but also showcased the depth of Sri Lanka’s batting order.