As the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 draws closer, Pakistan will finally step onto the field for their first official warm-up clash, taking on Ireland in Colombo today.
The match will be played at the iconic Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) Ground, offering Salman Ali Agha’s side a crucial opportunity to fine-tune combinations before the tournament begins on February 7 across India and Sri Lanka.
Pakistan enter the contest with strong momentum, fresh off a morale-boosting 3–0 T20I whitewash over Australia, while Ireland will be looking to bounce back after an unexpected defeat against Italy in their most recent series.
Warm-up matches may not count in official ICC records, but for teams preparing for a World Cup campaign, these games are priceless.
Pakistan vs Ireland Warm-Up Match Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Pakistan vs Ireland (T20 World Cup 2026 Warm-Up) |
| Date | Wednesday, February 4, 2026 |
| Time (India) | 5:00 PM IST |
| Time (Pakistan) | 4:30 PM PST |
| Venue | Sinhalese Sports Club Ground, Colombo |
| Event | ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Warm-Up Fixture |
Why This Match Matters for Pakistan
Pakistan’s build-up has been encouraging.The Men in Green dominated Australia in their last T20I series, with batters like Saim Ayub and Salman Agha providing firepower, while bowlers such as Mohammad Nawaz and Abrar Ahmed delivered consistent breakthroughs.
This warm-up fixture will allow Pakistan to:
- Test their best XI combinations
- Give match practice to key players
- Adjust to Sri Lankan playing conditions
- Build momentum before the group-stage opener
With all their tournament matches scheduled in Sri Lanka, this Colombo outing could feel like a rehearsal for the real stage.
Ireland Aim to Challenge Ahead of World Cup
Ireland, led by experienced skipper Paul Stirling, have been one of the most competitive associate sides in world cricket.
Despite a shock loss to Italy recently, Ireland still boast match-winners like:
- Harry Tector, their leading run-scorer
- Josh Little, a proven wicket-taker
- Curtis Campher, a dangerous all-round option
They will see this game as the perfect chance to test themselves against one of the tournament favourites.
Where to Watch Pakistan vs Ireland Live Streaming?
Live Streaming in India
Fans in India can watch the warm-up match live on:
- Jio Hotstar app and website
Note: The match will not be telecast live on Star Sports in India.
Live Streaming in Pakistan
Pakistan viewers can stream the match live on:
- Tapmad
- Tamasha
- Myco
- ARY Zapp
- PTV Sports
Live Streaming in Sri Lanka
Sri Lankan fans can watch via:
- ThePapare
- Dialog Play
Other Regions
- North America: Willow TV
- United Kingdom: Sky Sports (select matches) + ICC.tv
- Middle East & North Africa: E& (selected matches)
- Australia, Europe, Caribbean, SEA: ICC.tv
- Bangladesh: TSM via Rabbithole
Video highlights will also be available across ICC’s official digital platforms, including ICC.tv.
Pakistan vs Ireland Squads (Warm-Up Match)
Pakistan Squad
Salman Ali Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan, Usman Tariq
Ireland Squad
Paul Stirling (c), Mark Adair, Ross Adair, Ben Calitz, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Matthew Humphreys, Josh Little, Barry McCarthy, Harry Tector, Tim Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Ben White, Craig Young
FAQs – Pakistan vs Ireland T20 World Cup 2026 Warm-Up Match
Q1: When is the Pakistan vs Ireland warm-up match?
The match will be played on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.
Q2: What time does Pakistan vs Ireland start?
It begins at 5:00 PM IST (4:30 PM PST), with the toss shortly before.
Q3: Where is the match being played?
The fixture will take place at the SSC Cricket Ground, Colombo.
Q4: Will Pakistan vs Ireland be live on TV in India?
No, the match will not be telecast on Star Sports. It will only be streamed online.
Q5: Where can fans watch the match live in India?
Fans can stream it live on Jio Hotstar.
Q6: Where can fans watch in Pakistan?
Pakistani viewers can watch live on Tapmad, Tamasha, Myco, and ARY Zapp.
Q7: Are warm-up matches part of official ICC records?
No, warm-up games are not officially recorded, but they are vital for preparation.
Final Word
With Pakistan carrying strong momentum and Ireland eager to prove their credentials, today’s warm-up clash in Colombo promises competitive cricket before the tournament officially begins.
For Pakistan, it’s a chance to sharpen their edge.
For Ireland, it’s a chance to make a statement.
