Australia begin their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a Group B clash against Ireland at the iconic R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Wednesday, February 11.
Despite coming into the tournament after a disappointing 0-3 T20I series defeat against Pakistan, Australia remain one of the strongest contenders for the title thanks to their depth, experience and explosive batting unit.
Ireland, led by Paul Stirling, will be eager to bounce back after their opening loss to Sri Lanka. With the group race heating up quickly, this match could prove crucial for both sides in the early stages of the tournament.
Australia will also miss regular skipper Mitchell Marsh, who has been ruled out due to injury, meaning Travis Head will take charge for this important fixture.
When is Australia vs Ireland match?
The Australia vs Ireland match will be played on:
- Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2026
- Time: 3:00 PM IST
- Toss Time: 2:30 PM IST
- Venue: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
Where to watch Australia vs Ireland live on TV?
Fans in India can watch the live telecast of the AUS vs IRE match on the Star Sports Network.
- TV Broadcast Partner: Star Sports Channels
Where to watch Australia vs Ireland live streaming?
The match will be streamed live on JioHotstar for Indian viewers.
- Live Streaming Platform: JioHotstar App & Website
- Subscription: Required
AUS vs IRE Pitch Report: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
The Premadasa surface is known to be slightly slow, with spinners getting assistance as the match progresses.
Batters will need to spend some time in the middle before playing big shots freely. A first-innings total around 150–165 could be competitive at this venue.
AUS vs IRE Weather Forecast: Colombo
Colombo is expected to witness warm and humid conditions on match day.
- Temperature: Around 30–32°C
- Rain Chances: Very low
- Conditions: Partly cloudy, full match likely
Australia vs Ireland Playing XIs
Australia Playing XI
Travis Head (c), Josh Inglis (wk), Cameron Green, Matt Renshaw, Cooper Connolly, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Nathan Ellis, Xavier Bartlett, Matthew Kuhnemann, Adam Zampa
Ireland Playing XI
Paul Stirling (c), Ross Adair, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Curtis Campher, Benjamin Calitz, George Dockrell, Gareth Delany, Mark Adair, Barry McCarthy, Matthew Humphreys
Key Players to Watch
Travis Head (Australia)
Head will not only open the innings but also lead the side in Marsh’s absence. His aggressive starts could set the tone early.
Glenn Maxwell (Australia)
Maxwell remains Australia’s biggest X-factor in the middle overs with his power-hitting and handy off-spin.
Harry Tector (Ireland)
Ireland’s most reliable batter, Tector will be key if the Irish are to challenge Australia.
George Dockrell (Ireland)
Dockrell’s spin could be dangerous on the slow Colombo pitch.
Match Preview
Australia enter the contest as favourites, but Ireland have shown in recent years that they can trouble big teams on their day.
With both sides looking for early momentum in Group B, expect a competitive clash under the Colombo lights.
For Ireland, it’s a chance to create a major World Cup upset. For Australia, it’s about starting strong despite missing key players.
AUS vs IRE Live Streaming Details
- Match: Australia vs Ireland, Match 14
- Tournament: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
- Date: February 11, 2026
- Time: 3:00 PM IST
- TV: Star Sports Network
- Streaming: JioHotstar
FAQs
1. Where can I watch Australia vs Ireland live in India?
Fans can watch AUS vs IRE live on Star Sports and stream it on JioHotstar.
2. What time does the Australia vs Ireland match start?
The match begins at 3:00 PM IST, with the toss at 2:30 PM IST.
3. Which channel will broadcast AUS vs IRE match?
The match will be telecast live on the Star Sports Network.
4. Is AUS vs IRE live streaming free on JioHotstar?
No, viewers need an active subscription to watch the match online.
5. Where is Australia vs Ireland match being played?
The match is being held at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
