Cricket
“I Just Wanted to Score a Few Boundaries” – Kamindu Mendis Stars as Sri Lanka Beat Ireland in T20 World Cup Opener
Sri Lanka’s decision to draft in Kamindu Mendis at the last moment proved inspired, as the all-rounder produced a match-turning knock to guide the hosts to a 20-run victory over Ireland in their opening match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the R. Premadasa Stadium on Sunday.
Coming in with Sri Lanka in trouble at 86 for 4, Kamindu counter-attacked with a blistering 44 off just 19 deliveries, striking four boundaries and two sixes to swing momentum firmly in the hosts’ favour. His innings transformed a faltering batting effort into a competitive total of 163.
I just wanted to score a few boundaries and put a partnership with Kusal Mendis
Kusal was outstanding today. He deserves a lot of credit. We wanted someone to bat through the innings.
Kusal Mendis played the anchor role to perfection, remaining unbeaten on a composed half-century and ensuring Sri Lanka batted through their 20 overs — something that looked unlikely during the middle phase of the innings.
Sri Lanka’s bowling unit then delivered a disciplined performance, led by their spin trio of Maheesh Theekshana, Wanindu Hasaranga and Dunith Wellalage, who shared seven wickets to derail Ireland’s chase. Hasaranga claimed three scalps, taking his overall T20 World Cup wicket tally to 40 — second only to Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan (50).
There was a brief scare for Sri Lanka when Hasaranga limped off after his second over, sparking concern over his fitness. However, the skipper returned to complete his spell, easing fears ahead of the remaining group matches.
Ireland showed early promise, with George Dockrell returning impressive figures of 2 for 17 and a solid 49-run partnership between Lorcan Tucker and Harry Tector keeping them in the contest. But once spin was introduced in tandem, the visitors struggled to maintain momentum.
From 105 for 2, Ireland lost wickets in quick succession and were eventually bowled out for 143 in 19.5 overs, with Matheesha Pathirana picking up two wickets in the final over.
They got about 15 runs too many,” admitted Ireland captain Paul Stirling.
We were a bit sloppy in the field and we’ve got plenty of work to do before the next game. Spin is going to play a big role in this tournament, and that’s something we need to adapt to quickly.
Co-hosting the 20-team tournament alongside defending champions India, Sri Lanka could not have asked for a better start. The victory not only earned crucial points but also injected confidence into a campaign that carries high expectations on home soil
Cricket
Dinesh Chandimal Joins Quetta Gladiators as Replacement for Bevon Jacobs in PSL Boost
Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Chandimal is set to join the Quetta Gladiators, stepping in as a replacement for Bevon Jacobs, who has departed the squad to fulfill national team commitments. The experienced cricketer brings valuable international exposure and stability to the Gladiators as they prepare for the next phase of the Pakistan Super League.
Chandimal is scheduled to arrive in Pakistan shortly, with expectations high that he will integrate quickly into the team environment. His inclusion comes at a crucial time in the tournament, where consistency and depth in the batting lineup can make a significant difference.
Known for his composure under pressure and ability to anchor innings, Chandimal is likely to strengthen both the batting order and the wicketkeeping department. The Gladiators will be hoping his presence adds balance to the squad as they aim to improve their standing in the competition and push for a strong finish in the league.
Cricket
Benedictines retain the Luke Shield for the fifth consecutive year
St.Benedict’s College maintained stranglehold on the prestigeousLUKE SHIELD beating Wesley College by four wickets at the Singhalese Sports Club grounds recently.
This limited over encounter between 2 of the Oldest and Prestigeous Christian Schools in the country has been vigorously fought over , since it’s inception in 2022 and the Benedictines have won it each time , indicating it’s clear superiority over Wesley in this format of the game.
The match winner for St.Benedict’s was undoubtedly their opening batsman Tehan Bitar, who played a brilliant chanceless innings of 111 not out and steered his team to victory in the penultimate over of the game.He deservedly won the Best Batsman’s Award and coveted Player of the Match Award , which included a handsome cash prize.Batting first , Wesley were restricted to 193 runs, thanks mainly to a tight and accurate spell of 3 wickets for 25 runs in 10 overs by left arm spinner Vihanga Ratnayake .This effort earned him the Best Bowlers Award.
The fielding of Benedictines was neat, with wicket keeper Mario Fernando being exceptional.Wesley captain Rashmika Ameraratne top scored for Wesley , with a fighting knock of 43 not out , unfortunately missing out on a well deserved half century.The Best Fielder’s Award was won by S.Thilakasan of Wesley College and the Best Emerging Player Award went to R.Pieris of St.Benedict’s College.
The Benedictines were captained by 5th year ColoursmanMevan Dissanaike and coached by former Benedictine Opener S.K.Perera and guided by energetic Master in Charge Mr.AsankaWanninayake.This annual encounter is being played in true spirit of sportsmanship and enjoyed by students, staff and old boys of both Schools.This eagerly awaited event each year has become a meeting point and a place of celebration, revelry and cameraderie for Old Boys of both Schools with hundreds turning up from all parts of the world , specially for this friendly encounter.Annual Bens Wesley are also staged in many cities like Melbourne, Sydney , Auckland , London , Toronto and in the United Arab Emirates .
Cricket
Dilshan Madushanka Earns IPL Opportunity with Sunrisers Hyderabad
Sri Lankan pace sensation Dilshan Madushanka has secured a spot in the Indian Premier League, stepping in as a replacement player for Sunrisers Hyderabad. The franchise announced his inclusion after England fast bowler Brydon Carse was ruled out of the tournament due to injury.
Madushanka, known for his sharp left-arm pace and ability to swing the ball early, joins the squad as a like-for-like replacement. His addition comes at a crucial stage in the tournament, where teams are looking to fine-tune their combinations for a strong finish.
Sunrisers Hyderabad have been actively reshaping their bowling unit, and Madushanka’s arrival is expected to add both variety and depth. His international experience, particularly in high-pressure situations, makes him a valuable asset as the team navigates the latter half of the competition.
For Madushanka, this opportunity marks another significant milestone in his growing career. Having already impressed on the global stage with his pace and wicket-taking ability, the IPL now offers him a platform to showcase his skills among some of the best players in the world.
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