T20 World Cup: Oman, Ireland chase first win | Cricket News
Ireland and Oman clash in Colombo on Saturday in a Group B contest where both teams are chasing their first win of the T20 World Cup 2026. Ireland are still reeling from losses to Australia and Sri Lanka, while Oman are looking to bounce back from heavy defeats to Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka. Beyond points, this clash is a battle for pride and survival.Ireland suffered a major jolt when captain Paul Stirling was ruled out of the tournament after suffering ligament injury. Stirling hurt his right knee when completing a catch during Ireland’s 67-run loss to Australia on Wednesday. Uncapped left-handed opening batsman Sam Topping will replace Stirling in the squad.
“Paul will shortly return home for rest and rehabilitation, ahead of the home summer,” said Ireland’s director of high performance, Graeme West. With Stirling’s exit, Ireland must regroup, with the responsibility now falling on Harry Tector and Ross Adair.On the bowling front, George Dockrell has provided some control, but Ireland’s inability to post competitive scores has hurt them.Oman’s challenge has been their fragile batting lineup, dismissed cheaply for 103 and 120 in their two games. Mohammad Nadeem’s gritty half century against Sri Lanka stands out as the lone bright spot. Ireland hold the advantage with four wins in the last six meetings.
