Kusal Mendis struck an unbeaten half-century as Sri Lanka got their T20 World Cup campaign off to a winning start with a 20-run victory over Ireland.

Ireland won the toss and elected to bowl, and they were very much in the contest as they restricted their opponents to 86-4 through 14 overs.

George Dockrell took the wicket of Pathum Nissanka for 24 after a fine catch from captain Paul Stirling.

However, both Kusal and Kamindu Mendis put on 67 for the fifth wicket, with the latter falling for 44 from just 19 deliveries.

Kasul remained unbeaten with 56 from 44 balls, with Sri Lanka ending their innings on 163-6, racking up 59 across the last four overs.

Ireland's chase began well, and they passed 100 with just two wickets down, as Harry Tector (40) and Lorcan Tucker remained at the crease.

Nevertheless, Tucker's dismissal for 21 off 18 led to an Irish collapse, with all eight wickets falling for just 38 runs.

Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana were the pick of the Sri Lankan bowlers, as they ended with respective figures of 3-25 and 3-23. 

First game, first WIN!

Our #T20WorldCup journey starts with a bang as we defeat Ireland by 20 runs. Great shift from the boys to defend the total! #SriLankaCricket #SLvIRE pic.twitter.com/opMit2uThM

— Sri Lanka Cricket (@OfficialSLC) February 8, 2026

Data Debrief: Double trouble helps Sri Lanka hit 100

Despite not being at their best, Sri Lanka will be pleased to get off to a winning start in the competition, having lost their first match in the 2024 edition against South Africa.

Both Kasul and Kamindu proved to be the difference, with the former scoring his 18th fifty in the format since making his debut in July 2016 against England.

And the result saw Sri Lanka pick up their 100th men's T20I victory. They are the eighth team to reach the milestone in the history of the format, and they will be hoping to add to that tally at the tournament.