Colombo, Feb 9: Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis starred with the bat before Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana delivered a decisive spin show as Sri Lanka beat Ireland by 20 runs in their T20 World Cup match in Colombo. Kusal’s unbeaten 56 and Kamindu’s quick 44 lifted Sri Lanka to 163/6, while Hasaranga (3/25) and Theekshana (3/23) then bowled Ireland out for 143.Ireland had kept Sri Lanka under pressure early, with George Dockrell leading a disciplined bowling effort as the hosts struggled at 68 for three midway through the innings. Kusal anchored the recovery with a patient knock, adapting well to the conditions and ensuring Sri Lanka had a competitive total on the board.
In the chase, Ireland never fully settled against Sri Lanka’s spin-heavy attack. Hasaranga struck at key moments, while Theekshana maintained relentless control, tightening the screws as wickets fell regularly to seal a crucial win for Sri Lanka in the group stage.