COLOMBO: Ireland registered their first victory of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 with a commanding 96-run win over Oman at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground on Saturday, a result that ended Oman’s hopes of progressing further in the tournament.
Chasing a daunting target of 236, Oman were bowled out for 139 in 18 overs as Ireland’s attack produced a disciplined performance. Josh Little led the bowling effort with superb figures of 3/16, while Matthew Humphreys and Barry McCarthy claimed two wickets each. George Dockrell also chipped in with one.
For Oman, Aamir Kaleem fought back with an aggressive 50 off 29 balls, including five fours and two sixes, while Hammad Mirza contributed 46 from 37 deliveries. The rest of the batting line-up, however, failed to offer meaningful resistance.
Earlier, Ireland endured a shaky start after losing Tim Tector in the opening over. Ross Adair and Harry Tector made 14 apiece before Ireland slipped to 45-3 inside five overs. Curtis Campher briefly stabilised the innings but fell for 12.
The match turned when Lorcan Tucker and Gareth Delany launched a counterattack, adding a vital 101-run partnership. Delany struck 56 off 30 balls, while Tucker dominated throughout, finishing unbeaten on 94 from 51 deliveries, including 10 fours and four sixes.
Ireland’s late surge was powered by Dockrell, who smashed an unbeaten 35 off nine balls with five sixes, helping Ireland post an imposing total and seal a comprehensive victory.
