Key Highlights
- The ninth warm-up match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 will see Pakistan face Ireland.
- Pakistan aims to strengthen batting depth and sharpen bowling plans, while Ireland seeks a valuable test against a strong opponent.
- Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan are expected to provide stability for Pakistan at the top of the order.
- Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah will lead Pakistan’s pace attack, focusing on improving execution in powerplay and death overs.
Pakistani Squad Strategy
Pakistan enters this warm-up match with the primary goal of preparing for their upcoming T20 World Cup campaign. The team is expected to use this opportunity to test various combinations, build rhythm, and gain confidence in key roles.
Top Order Stability
Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan will be crucial in providing stability at the top of Pakistan’s batting lineup. These experienced batters aim to set a solid foundation for the middle order, which is expected to accelerate efficiently during the innings.
Irish Team Tactics
Ireland sees this match as an essential test against a strong opponent. Paul Stirling will aim to provide his side with an aggressive start, while all-rounders like Curtis Campher and George Dockrell are likely to contribute in both batting and bowling departments. The focus for Ireland’s bowlers is on discipline and smart variations to counter Pakistan’s formidable batting lineup.
Match Preview
The match at the Sinhalese Sports Club, Colombo, will be played on 4th February at 5:00 PM IST. The wicket is expected to be good but with a favorable setup for pacers. Ireland’s Paul Stirling and Pakistan’s Saim Ayub are key players to watch out for, while the all-round performance of Curtis Campher could prove crucial.
Dream11 Prediction
For fantasy cricket enthusiasts, the lineup will be carefully crafted with a focus on multi-dimensional value. Saim Ayub and Salman Agha are captaincy picks due to their adaptability across batting and bowling roles. Top picks include Curtis Campher for his consistent dual-discipline impact.
Captaincy Choices
Saim Ayub will lead the Pakistan team, with Salman Agha serving as vice-captain. For Ireland, Paul Stirling and Curtis Campher will co-lead the side. The Dream11 prediction teams have been designed to balance batting, bowling, and all-round contributions.
Conclusion
The ninth warm-up match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 between Pakistan and Ireland is set to be a competitive and purposeful affair. Both sides will use this game to refine their strategies and ensure they are ready for the main tournament.
