Mark Adair in action for Ireland at the ICC T20 World Cup against Oman on Saturday. Photo: Viraj Kothalawala/SportsfileThe first leg of Ireland’s improbable route to the last eight of the T20 World Cup was completed in Kandy tonight when Sri Lanka chased down an Australian total of 181 with two overs to spare. Ireland must win to stay in the tournament and hope that Sri Lanka complete a clean sweep of Group B by beating Zimbabwe on Thursday, in which case the runners-up spot will be decided on nett run-rate. Australia would appear to have a ‘Get-out-of-jail-free card’ when they play whipping boys Oman on Friday, but if that game is rained off Ireland still have a chance. “I've played with Blessing and against him for a long time, and big Ritchie Ngavara as well,” Adair said.

Source: Irish Independent February 17, 2026 01:06 UTC