Ireland vs Zimbabwe, 32nd Match Pitch Report - Match Overview & Playing XI | ICC Men's T20 World Cup, 2026

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CFLL Staff

Published on

16 February 2026 | 10:48AM
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The 32nd match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 will feature Ireland taking on Zimbabwe at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy. Fans closely following the IRE vs ZIM Live Score can expect an intense battle as both teams look to secure vital points in the group stage.


Ireland enter the contest with a balanced squad capable of adapting to varying match situations. Their batting lineup offers stability at the top and flexibility in the middle overs, while their bowling attack provides a mix of pace and spin options. In subcontinental conditions, Ireland’s ability to rotate strike and maintain control through disciplined spells will be key.


Zimbabwe, on the other hand, have demonstrated resilience and competitiveness in global tournaments. Their squad includes experienced campaigners who can shift momentum with both bat and ball. Zimbabwe’s strength often lies in building partnerships and maintaining pressure through tight overs in the middle phase. On a surface like Pallekele, execution of slower deliveries and spin variations could prove crucial.


With both teams eager to strengthen their tournament campaigns, this fixture could be closely contested. Small margins in powerplay efficiency and death-over performance may ultimately decide the outcome.

Ireland vs Zimbabwe, 32nd Match Details

Series

ICC Men's T20 World Cup, 2026

Match

Ireland vs Zimbabwe

Date & Time

17 February 2026, 03:00 PM

Venue

Pallekele International Cricket Stadium

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Ireland vs Zimbabwe, 32nd Match Weather Condition

10:30 am

Cloud

47%

Humidity

56%

Wind

5 km/h

25.8

o

Partly cloudy

Pallekele International Cricket Stadium

Pallekele International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report

Pitch Condition

Fast & Bounce

Batting Condition

Average

Pace Bowling

Pace & Bounce

Spin Bowling

Average

Pace vs Spin on Venue

(Last 10 match)

The pitch at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium generally offers a fair balance between bat and ball. Early in the innings, batters can take advantage of consistent bounce and pace to score freely. However, as the match progresses, the surface may slow slightly, assisting spinners and bowlers who rely on variations. A 3:00 PM start reduces the impact of dew, which can sometimes influence evening matches. Totals in the range of 160 to 175 are often competitive here. Teams may opt to bat first and set a challenging score, using spin and disciplined bowling in the second innings to apply pressure.

Ireland Recent form

Last 5 Matches

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Zimbabwe Recent form

Last 5 Matches

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Venue Scoring Pattern

Avg 1st Innings

168

X

145

Avg 2st Innings

Highest Total

263/3 By AUS vs SL

X

88/10 (16 Ovs) By NZ vs SL

Lowest Total

Highest Chased

178/2 (18.4 Ovs) By PAK vs BAN

X

133/10 (16.2 Ovs) By SL vs ENG

Lowest Defended

Matches Won
Batting First

16

57%
|
43%
Bowling First

12

Ireland vs Zimbabwe, 32nd Match Squad

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Ireland Probable XI :

Ross Adair, Tim Tector, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Benjamin Calitz, Curtis Campher, George Dockrell, Gareth Delany, Joshua Little, Mark Adair, Barry McCarthy

Zimbabwe Probable XI :

Tashinga Musekiwa, Dion Myers, Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Sikandar Raza, Ryan Burl, Tony Munyonga, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, Wellington Masakadza

Conclusion

The IRE vs ZIM encounter promises to be a closely fought contest between two evenly matched sides. Both teams possess the ability to produce match-winning performances, making tactical discipline essential. Ireland will look to build steady partnerships and control the game through structured bowling spells. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, may focus on aggressive intent balanced with composure in key moments. Powerplay breakthroughs and finishing strength in the final overs could determine the result. Fans can anticipate a competitive and engaging contest in Kandy as both teams aim to keep their World Cup ambitions alive.