Sri Lanka to go with six-five combination vs Ireland T20 WC 2026 View(s): View(s):Sri Lanka have opted for a six-batsman, five-bowler combination for their opening T20 World Cup fixture against Ireland at the R. Premadasa Stadium today. This means batters Charith Asalanka, Kusal Janith Perera, and Janith Liyanage will sit out. Young Pavan Rathnayake, who has brought a breath of fresh air into the team, will occupy the key No.4 slot, followed by Kamindu Mendis and Dasun Shanaka. Sri Lanka will field a two-man seam attack supported by three spinners — Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, and Maheesh Theekshana. Probable Sri Lanka XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Pavan Rathnayake, Dasun Shanaka (Captain), Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana

Source: Sunday Times February 07, 2026 20:10 UTC