Ireland face crunch match with Namibia following resounding defeat to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga celebrates the wicket of Ireland’s Gareth Delany with teammates. Picutre: INPHO/Pankaj Nangia

Ireland face a winner-takes-all showdown against Namibia on Friday after a resounding 70-run defeat to Sri Lanka, who became the first side to qualify from the T20 World Cup first round stage.

Sri Lanka were on the ropes after lurching to eight for three inside the first 10 balls in Abu Dhabi and were grateful for a decisive 123-run stand between Pathum Nissanka and Wanindu Hasaranga to subdue Ireland.