PALLEKELE: The toss for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 group-stage fixture between Zimbabwe and Ireland was briefly delayed due to rain at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.
Ground staff were forced to cover the pitch as showers passed over the venue, holding up proceedings ahead of what is a crucial encounter for both sides.
Squads
Zimbabwe: Sikandar Raza (c), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Graeme Cremer, Bradley Evans, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Ben Curran.
Ireland: Lorcan Tucker (c), Sam Topping, Mark Adair, Ross Adair, Ben Calitz, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Matthew Humphreys, Josh Little, Barry McCarthy, Harry Tector, Tim Tector, Ben White, Craig Young.
Zimbabwe and Ireland have met 18 times in T20 internationals, with the rivalry finely balanced. Both teams have recorded eight victories each, while two matches have ended without a result.
Matches: 18
Zimbabwe wins: 8
Ireland wins: 8
No result: 2
Zimbabwe enter the match looking to continue their positive momentum after consecutive group-stage victories over Oman and Australia, results that have strengthened their Super Eight aspirations.
Ireland, meanwhile, are aiming to build on their important win against Australia and secure a second triumph in the tournament. However, their qualification hopes may still hinge on results elsewhere in the group.
Recent results (most recent first)
Zimbabwe: W, W, L, L, W
Ireland: W, L, L, W, W
