However, there are still concerns about how comfortable they will be. Captain Dasun Shanaka has pointed out issues with slow pitches, and Sri Lanka’s recent performances at the R. Premadasa Stadium have not been encouraging. Adding to the uncertainty, England recently completed a 3-0 series sweep against them on home soil.
Ireland will see this as a chance to cause an upset. After a difficult 2024 season without any series wins, they have regained confidence with consecutive series victories against lower-ranked teams.
These matches were played in Dubai, where conditions could resemble what they might face in Sri Lanka, helping them adjust quickly. For Ireland, progressing to the next stage likely depends on defeating either Sri Lanka or Australia, making this opening match extremely important. A strong performance here could put early pressure on the hosts.
Sri Lanka’s squad features key players like Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, and fast bowlers Dushmantha Chameera and Matheesha Pathirana. Ireland will depend on experienced players such as captain Paul Stirling, Harry Tector, Josh Little, Curtis Campher, and George Dockrell to challenge the hosts.
Squads:
Sri Lanka: Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Janith Perera, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Eshan Malinga
Ireland: Paul Stirling (c), Mark Adair, Ross Adair, Ben Calitz, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Matthew Humphreys, Josh Little, Barry McCarthy, Harry Tector, Tim Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Ben White, Craig Young
