Kamindu Mendis Sparks Sri Lanka’s T20 World Cup, Sri Lanka launched their campaign in the T20 World Cup with a composed victory over Ireland at the Premadasa Stadium, avoiding the early-tournament stumbles that have caught several fancied teams off guard.
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Kamindu Mendis turns the tide
For long stretches, it looked like Sri Lanka might be dragged into another tense contest in this T20 World Cup, as Ireland’s disciplined bowling exploited a slow surface and a vast outfield. The hosts were restricted to 104 for 4 after 16 overs, with timing hard to find and boundaries drying up. Then Kamindu Mendis walked in and flipped the script.
Coming in at No.6, Kamindu Mendis produced a stunning unbeaten 44 off just 19 balls, an innings that completely altered the complexion of the game in this T20 World Cup clash. His intent was clear from the outset, using innovation and power to counter Ireland’s spinners. A reverse sweep for four broke the shackles, and moments later a miscued shot still raced away for six, symbolising how momentum had swung. Alongside him, Kusal Mendis held firm, finishing on 56 not out from 43 deliveries, anchoring the innings while Kamindu Mendis provided the explosion. Sri Lanka closed on a competitive 164, a total that looked well beyond par on the surface.
Spinners seal control, Ireland fall short
Defending the target in the T20 World Cup, Sri Lanka’s spinners ensured there was no late drama. Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga applied relentless pressure, suffocating Ireland through dot balls and subtle variations. Although Ross Adair and Harry Tector tried to keep the chase alive, the required acceleration never arrived in this T20 World Cup encounter. Wickets fell as risks increased, and Ireland eventually finished 20 runs short.
Ireland’s struggle also reflected broader challenges. Despite being a Full Member nation, consistent high-level exposure has been limited, an issue their captain Paul Stirling has previously highlighted. Preparations for the T20 World Cup included tours of Bangladesh and training stints in Dubai, but against Sri Lanka’s spin-heavy attack, the lack of experience on such surfaces was evident.
For Sri Lanka, this T20 World Cup win carried added significance. Kamindu Mendis, left out of recent squads and only a late inclusion, underlined his value as a dynamic match-winner. On a tricky pitch, his innings proved decisive, setting the tone as co-hosts made a confident and reassuring start to their T20 World Cup journey.
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