Lions vs The Red Brigade: Can Oman Stun the Hosts in Kandy?
By Crick tv
Updated: Feb 12, 2026 10:01 AM
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is heating up, and today all eyes are on the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. The co-hosts, Sri Lanka, are ready to welcome Oman for what promises to be an intriguing Group B encounter.
On paper, this looks like a classic "David vs. Goliath" battle. But if T20 cricket has taught us anything, it’s that the game isn't played on paper. Let’s dive into what we can expect from this clash.
The Context: Momentum vs Survival
Sri Lanka enters this match with their heads held high. Their opening victory against Ireland was a professional display—not flawless, but effective. They defended a total comfortably, showing why they are a dangerous side in home conditions. A win today would put them firmly in the driver's seat for the Super 8s.
On the flip side, Oman is fighting to stay alive. Their heavy defeat against Zimbabwe in the opener was a wake-up call. Their net run rate took a beating, and another loss today against the hosts could virtually end their World Cup dreams. They are the underdogs, but cornered tigers (or in this case, the Red Brigade) are often the most dangerous.
The Big Blow: No Hasaranga
The biggest talking point leading up to this match isn't who is playing, but who isn't.
Wanindu Hasaranga, Sri Lanka's spin wizard and arguably their MVP, has been ruled out of the tournament with a hamstring injury. This is a massive blow for the Lions. Hasaranga wasn’t just a wicket-taker; he was the captain of their bowling attack.
All eyes will now be on his replacement, Dushan Hemantha, and the mystery spinner Maheesh Theekshana. Can they step up and fill that massive void? Oman’s batters will certainly breathe a little easier knowing they don’t have to pick Hasaranga’s googly today.
Players to Watch
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Kusal Mendis (Sri Lanka): He looked in sublime touch against Ireland. If he gets going in the powerplay, he could take the game away from Oman very quickly.
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Vinayak Shukla (Oman): One of the few bright spots for Oman recently. He showed great form in the warm-ups and has the ability to clear the ropes. If Oman wants to chase or set a big target, Shukla needs to fire.
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Dasun Shanaka (Sri Lanka): The skipper is the glue in that middle order. With Hasaranga gone, his role as a finisher and a calming influence becomes even more critical.
The Pitch: Pallekele’s Promise
Pallekele usually offers a fair contest. There’s something in it for the pacers early on under the lights (or overcast skies), but it generally settles into a decent batting track. However, being an afternoon start (11:00 AM), expect the spinners to come into play as the pitch warms up.
Final Verdict
It’s hard to bet against Sri Lanka at home. Even without Hasaranga, their depth and familiarity with the conditions give them a significant edge. Oman needs a miracle—or a batting collapse from the hosts—to pull this off.
Prediction: Sri Lanka to win comfortably, but expect Oman to put up a fiercer fight than they did against Zimbabwe.
Catch the action live at 11:00 AM IST!