Sri Lanka vs Ireland Video Highlights: Kamindu Mendis 44(19) & Hasaranga 3/25 Seal Win | T20 World Cup 2026

Kamindu Mendis goes BESERK (44 off 19)! 🤯 Spinners choke Ireland to seal a 20-run win! Watch the comeback highlights! 📺🏏 Co-hosts Sri Lanka have started their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a gritty 20-run victory over Ireland at the R. Premadasa Stadium! Watch the highlights as the 'Mendis Duo' rescued the hosts before the spinners spun a web around the Irish batters. Struggling at 86/4 in the 14th over after a disciplined spell from George Dockrell (2/17), Sri Lanka looked in trouble. But Kamindu Mendis changed the game, smashing a blistering 44 off just 19 balls to partner with anchor Kusal Mendis (56 off 43)*. Their 67-run stand powered Sri Lanka to a competitive 163/6. In reply, Ireland were well-placed at 105/2 with Harry Tector (40) and Ross Adair (34) looking dangerous. However, the introduction of spin turned the tide. Wanindu Hasaranga (3/25) and Maheesh Theekshana (3/23) triggered a massive collapse, taking 6 wickets between them to bowl Ireland out for 143. Match Key Moments: The Rescue: Kamindu Mendis' game-changing 44 (19) when SL were stuck. The Anchor: Kusal Mendis carries his bat with a vital fifty. The Collapse: Ireland lose their last 8 wickets for just 38 runs. The Magic: Hasaranga & Theekshana completely dominating the death overs. Final Score: Sri Lanka 163/6 def. Ireland 143 (19.5 ov) Player of the Match: Kamindu Mendis