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T20 World Cup 2026: Sri Lanka will play their first match of the ICC T20 World Cup against Ireland at their home ground, R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. Sri Lanka recently suffered a crushing 3-0 defeat in the T20 series against England. On the other hand, Ireland won their T20 series against the UAE. Both teams are part of Group B. Both teams will be looking to start the tournament with a win in this match.
SL vs IRE Match Preview: Key Battles
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- Sri Lanka: Under the captaincy of Dasun Shanaka, the Sri Lankan team is extremely dangerous on their home pitches. The spin duo of Hasaranga and Theekshana can trouble any team.
- Ireland: Ireland's strength lies in their fearless batting and experienced fast bowler Mark Adair. Their performance on the slow pitches of the subcontinent will determine their victory today.
SL vs IRE AI Dream11 Prediction: Winning Probability & Stats
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AI analysis based on the spin-friendly pitch in Colombo and records
| Category | AI Analysis & Prediction |
|---|---|
| Winning Probability | Sri Lanka: 82% | Ireland: 18% |
| Projected Score (1st Innings) | 160 - 180 (A challenging score on a slow pitch) |
| >Key Battle-up | Wanindu Hasaranga vs Paul Stirling |
Also Read: SL vs IRE T20 WC Match Pitch Report, R Premadasa Cricket Stadium stats, records
Top Players to Watch: SL vs IRE
- Pathum Nissanka (SL): The backbone of the Sri Lankan batting. Their start in the powerplay is crucial for the team.
- Wanindu Hasaranga (SL): His leg-spin on the Colombo pitch will be the biggest threat to Ireland.
- Paul Stirling (IRE): Ireland's most experienced batsman. If he settles in during the powerplay, he can change the course of the match.
- Matheesha Pathirana (SL): With his 'Malinga-like' bowling style, he will trouble Ireland in the death overs.
Who will win today's SL vs IRE T20 WC Match?
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Statistically, Sri Lanka has a significant advantage. The ball often holds up on the R. Premadasa pitch, which is a paradise for spinners like Hasaranga and Theekshana. Ireland's batsmen might struggle against spin. According to AI, Sri Lanka will start their World Cup campaign with a win in this match.
SL vs IRE Dream11 Team
- Wicketkeeper: Kusal Mendis, Lorcan Tucker
- Batsmen: Pathum Nissanka, Paul Stirling, Harry Tector
- All-rounders: Wanindu Hasaranga, Curtis Campher, George Dockrell, Dasun Shanaka
- Bowlers: Matheesha Pathirana, Dushmantha Chameera
- Captain: Kusal Mendis
- Vice-Captain: Harry Tector
SL vs IRE Dream11 Winning Team: 1. Kusal Mendis (C), 2. Lorcan Tucker, 3. Pathum Nissanka, 4. Paul Stirling, 5. Harry Tector (VC), 6. Wanindu Hasaranga, 7. Curtis Campher, 8. George Dockrell, 9. Dasun Shanaka, 10. Matheesha Pathirana, 11. Dushmantha Chameera
Also Read: SL vs IRE T20I Head to Head Records, and Colombo Weather Report
Disclaimer
Possible11 is a sports news and analysis platform designed purely for entertainment and educational purposes. All match previews, player insights, and team analyses are based on publicly available information and expert opinions. We do not promote or support betting, gambling, or real-money gaming in any form. Users are encouraged to enjoy our content responsibly and use it for informational purposes only.
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