Sri Lanka vs Oman T20 World Cup 2026 Match Preview – February 12, 2026

Date: February 12, 2026
Time: 05:30 GMT (11:00 AM LOCAL)
Venue: Kandy, Asgiriya Stadium
Competition: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
Group B Match
Group B Teams: Sri Lanka, Australia, Ireland, Zimbabwe, Oman

Match Overview

Sri Lanka and Oman clash in what promises to be an intriguing Group B encounter of the T20 World Cup 2026. This match in Kandy will be a crucial test for both teams as they look to secure valuable points in the early stages of the tournament.

Sri Lanka, a traditional power in limited-overs cricket, will be aiming to build momentum after their group fixtures. With a mix of experienced campaigners and emerging stars, they have the firepower and depth to pose a serious challenge to any opponent, including the lower-ranked teams in the group.

Oman, on the other hand, will be looking to continue their impressive performances in international cricket. The Omani side has shown great progress in recent years, particularly in T20I competitions, and will be eager to make a mark on the global stage. Their balanced squad and tactical discipline could give them a fighting chance in this match.

Team Form and Strengths

Sri Lanka

• Captain: Pathum Nissanka (or appointed captain for the tournament)

• Key Players: Kusal Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Charith Asalanka

• Strengths:

  • High-quality batting lineup with a blend of aggressive openers and middle-order anchors.
  • One of the best spin bowling units in the world, with Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana in fine form.
  • A strong record in home conditions, especially in Kandy.

• Recent Performance (T20I):

  • Sri Lanka have been inconsistent in recent T20Is but possess the talent to play with flair and pressure.
  • Their spin-heavy attack can be particularly effective in the subcontinent's slow pitches.

Oman

• Captain: Zeeshan Maqsood

• Key Players: Zeeshan Maqsood, Aamir Khan, Ruhan Khan, Zeeshan Siddiqui

• Strengths:

  • Balanced squad with a good mix of experienced and young players.
  • Agile and composed middle-order batting.
  • Strong death-over bowlers, with Aamir Khan and Zeeshan Siddiqui posing a threat in the final overs.

• Recent Performance (T20I):

  • Oman has shown promise in recent T20I series, including notable performances against full-member teams.
  • Their ability to chase down targets and their disciplined bowling can unsettle even strong batting lineups.

Head-to-Head

Sri Lanka and Oman have met in several T20I encounters in recent years. Sri Lanka has maintained a dominant record in these matches, but Oman has shown signs of being a tough opponent, especially in tight contests.

• Last 5 T20Is (Sri Lanka vs Oman):
  • Sri Lanka: 4 wins
  • Oman: 1 win

However, the T20 World Cup is a different stage, and Oman will be eager to prove themselves against a higher-ranked opponent.

Venue Insight

Asgiriya Stadium, Kandy is known for its slow and turning pitch, which typically favors spin bowlers. With Sri Lanka’s world-class spin attack, this could be a significant advantage. However, Oman’s batters are used to such conditions and have the technique to counter spin effectively.

Weather Forecast

The weather in Kandy during the match is expected to be mostly clear with a high of 28°C. No rain or humidity-related issues are forecasted, which is ideal for a T20 match.

Match Prediction

This match is expected to be a close contest, with both teams having the potential to win. Sri Lanka’s superior bowling and batting depth give them a slight edge, but Oman’s tactical discipline and adaptability could make this a challenging game.

Prediction:

• Sri Lanka (55%)
• Oman (45%)

Key Matchups to Watch

• Wanindu Hasaranga vs Oman's middle order – The Sri Lankan leg-spinner could be the difference-maker in this match.
• Zeeshan Maqsood (Oman) vs Sri Lankan spinners – Maqsood’s composure and technique will be tested on a spin-friendly track.
• Kusal Mendis (Sri Lanka) vs Aamir Khan (Oman) – A battle between two experienced T20 players with contrasting styles.

Conclusion

The Sri Lanka vs Oman clash in Kandy is a must-watch for T20 cricket fans. While Sri Lanka are the favorites due to their depth and experience, Oman's recent progress and adaptability make them a dangerous opponent. With the tournament still in its early stages, this match could set the tone for both teams’ campaigns in the 2026 T20 World Cup.

Don’t miss the action as Sri Lanka and Oman battle it out in Kandy on February 12, 2026 at 05:30 GMT.
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