Ireland vs Oman T20 World Cup 2026: Tucker & Delany Power Ireland to 96-Run Win

Ireland produced one of their most explosive batting displays in T20 World Cup history, crushing Oman by 96 runs after posting a massive 235/5 at Colombo SSC. What began as a shaky innings turned into a breathtaking exhibition of power-hitting led by captain Lorcan Tucker and Gareth Delany.

Early Collapse, Then Complete Domination

Inserted to bat, Ireland’s innings got off to a turbulent start. Shakeel Ahmed ripped through the top order, removing three key batters inside the powerplay. At 64/4, Ireland looked in serious trouble.

But that’s when the momentum shifted.

Lorcan Tucker, who survived a controversial stumping decision on 18, joined forces with Gareth Delany to completely turn the match around. The duo played fearless cricket, attacking the Oman bowlers from the outset. Their partnership run rate of 22.10 (70 off just 19 balls) is now the highest ever in T20 World Cup history.

Delany smashed 56 off 30 balls, while Tucker anchored the innings brilliantly with 94* off 51 deliveries, narrowly missing a century.

Death Over Destruction

Ireland unleashed carnage in the final overs. They hammered 93 runs in overs 16-20, one of the highest death-over tallies in T20 World Cup history.

George Dockrell added the finishing touches with a stunning 35* off just 9 balls, including a hat-trick of sixes in the final over. Ireland’s 235/5 became the second-highest total in T20 World Cup history.

Oman’s Strong Start Fades

Chasing 236 was always going to be tough, but Oman showed early intent. Aamir Kaleem played a magnificent knock of 50, becoming one of the oldest players to score a T20 World Cup fifty.

At 102/3 in the 11th over, Oman were still fighting.

However, once Kaleem fell, the chase collapsed dramatically. Ireland’s bowlers tightened the screws, with Josh Little leading the charge with figures of 3/16. Oman lost their final seven wickets for just 42 runs and were eventually bowled out for 139.

Statement Victory for Ireland

This was more than just a win — it was a statement performance. From early pressure to complete domination, Ireland showed composure, power, and intent.

With a huge boost to their net run rate, they are very much alive in the tournament.