Sri Lanka vs Ireland Highlights, T20 World Cup 6th Match | Feb 08: Kamindu Mendis’ Fire and Disciplined Bowling Seal Perfect Group B Start

SL vs IRE 6th ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Match Highlights saw Sri Lanka defeat Ireland by 20 runs at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on February 8, 2026. With this win, Sri Lanka solidified their position at the top of Group B, earning 2 points, while Ireland remain second in the group. The match featured disciplined bowling and selective hitting that shaped a competitive contest in the early stages of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

Ireland, having won the toss, elected to field first on what appeared to be a surface offering steady bounce and predictable carry. Sri Lanka managed to build a moderately competitive total of 163/6 in their 20 overs, thanks to key contributions from Kusal Mendis, who remained unbeaten on 56 off 43 balls, and Kamindu Mendis, who struck a rapid 44 from 19 deliveries. Pathum Nissanka and Kamil Mishara provided quick starts but were dismissed before they could anchor a longer innings, exposing the team to intermittent collapses.

Sri Lanka’s batting effort was complemented by disciplined bowling from Ireland in the powerplay and middle overs. George Dockrell and Barry McCarthy kept the run rate in check initially, though Kamindu Mendis’s aggressive strike rate of 231.57 lifted the total in the final overs. Extras contributed nine runs to Sri Lanka’s total, highlighting Ireland’s occasional lack of bowling discipline. The middle overs saw strategic breakthroughs with McCarthy and Adair chipping in with key wickets, yet the finishing power of Sri Lanka’s lower middle order proved decisive.

Ireland’s chase began steadily, with Ross Adair and Harry Tector providing momentum in the early overs. Tector’s 40 off 34 balls kept Ireland in contention, but a collapse triggered by timely wickets from Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga slowed the scoring. Wellalage and Hasaranga struck at key intervals to curtail partnerships, leaving Ireland 143 all out in the 19.5th over. Tactical variations in the final overs, including Pathirana’s two wickets and Chameera’s penetration, sealed the match despite late contributions from George Dockrell and Mark Adair.

Sri Lanka demonstrated adaptability in handling the innings break and varied bowling attacks, while Ireland showed resilience in patches but ultimately lacked the finishing edge. The match underscored the importance of effective middle-over bowling and counter-attacking lower-order batting.

Also read: Afghanistan vs New Zealand Highlights, T20 World Cup | Feb 08

Toss Winner

After winning the toss, Ireland opted to bowl before batting.

Key Moment

Kamindu Mendis’s counter-attacking 44 off 19 balls, combined with a 50-run partnership in just 26 balls, decisively shifted the match in Sri Lanka’s favour by setting a challenging total in the final overs.

Star Performer / MVP

Kamindu Mendis was named Player of the Match for his rapid 44 runs off 19 balls, which significantly boosted Sri Lanka’s total and defined the contest.

SL vs IRE Match Summary

SL vs IRE Playing XI

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Pavan Rathnayake, Dunith Wellalage, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana

Ireland: Paul Stirling, Ross Adair, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Curtis Campher, Ben Calitz, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Mark Adair, Barry McCarthy, Matthew Humphreys

FAQs – Yesterday’s SL vs IRE 6th Match (Feb 08, 2026)

Q1: What was the final score of yesterday’s SL vs IRE match?
A1: Yesterday (February 08, 2026): 6th Match
Sri Lanka (163/6) beat Ireland (143) by 20 runs.
Sri Lanka: Kusal Mendis scored 56* and Kamindu Mendis 44.
Ireland: Harry Tector made 40 and Ross Adair 34.
Result: Sri Lanka lead Group B with 2 points.

Q2: Who was named the Player of the Match?
A2: Kamindu Mendis was named the Player of the Match for his aggressive 44 runs off 19 balls, which helped Sri Lanka set a challenging total.

Q3: Where was the match played, and who won the toss?
A3: The match was played at R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. Ireland won the toss and elected to field first.

Q4: Who were the top performers with the bat for both sides?
A4: For Sri Lanka, Kusal Mendis top-scored with 56* runs. For Ireland, Harry Tector led the innings with 40 runs.

Disclaimer: This match highlight is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

To catch up on the most current news on all of your favorite thrilling cricket updates, visit BJSports to access our comprehensive Match Highlights, insightful analysis, and updates. Connect with the action now to make sure you never miss out!