Ireland powered to the highest total of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup on Saturday, crushing Oman by 96 runs in a dominant Group B display.
Stand-in captain Lorcan Tucker, deputising for the injured Paul Stirling, produced a scintillating unbeaten 94 to lead Ireland to a massive 235 for 5 — the tournament’s highest score so far. Gareth Delany provided strong support with 56, while George Dockrell remained unbeaten on 35. Shakeel Ahmed was the pick of Oman’s bowlers with 3 for 33.
In reply, Oman never seriously threatened the target and were bowled out for 139 with two overs remaining. Aamir Kaleem struck a 29-ball 50 and Hammad Mirza added 46 before being run out, but Ireland’s bowlers kept tight control. Josh Little starred with 3 for 16 from four overs, Matthew Humphreys claimed 2 for 27, Barry McCarthy 2 for 32, and Dockrell chipped in with 1 for 6.
Ireland’s commanding victory significantly boosts their net run rate as the group stage intensifies.
In the second match of the day, England kept their Super Eight hopes alive with a tense five-wicket win over Scotland at Eden Gardens.
Chasing 153, England were made to work hard before Tom Banton’s unbeaten 63 off 41 balls, his fourth T20I half-century, steadied the innings and guided them home. The victory moves England into second place in Group C with one match remaining.
South Africa wrapped up Saturday’s action with a confident seven-wicket win over New Zealand.
New Zealand posted 175 for 7, with Mark Chapman top-scoring with 48. Daryl Mitchell made 32, Finn Allen 31, and James Neesham 23. Marco Jansen was outstanding with the ball, claiming 4 for 40.
In response, Aiden Markram delivered a match-winning unbeaten 86 off just 44 balls, while David Miller supported with an unbeaten 24. South Africa chased down the target in 17.1 overs, finishing on 178 for 3.
The win strengthens South Africa’s position in the group standings as the race for the Super Eight spots tightens.
