Scotland crush Ireland by 40 runs in T20 World Cup opener 2026

Kathryn Bryce's 60 guided Scotland to 161-5, then Ireland folded for 121 as the Scots claimed their first T20 World Cup victory.

Scotland dominate Ireland Scotland claimed their first-ever T20 World Cup win with a commanding 40-run triumph over Ireland in the Manchester opener. Kathryn Bryce led the way with a 60-run knock, while her sister Sarah added 49, helping the team post 161-5 in 20 overs. Kirstie Gordon struck three wickets in a single over as Ireland crumbled to 121 all out. The victory marked Scotland's first win at the tournament after four previous losses, while Ireland extended their losing streak to 18 matches. ## Match starts with early setbacks Ireland won the toss and chose to bowl first under chilly, windy conditions in Manchester. Scotland stumbled to 36-2 early, but the Bryce sisters combined for a crucial 106-run stand to shift the momentum. Kathryn Bryce's innings included six fours and a six, with the duo adding 36 runs in just two overs. Two missed chances against the Scottish captain proved costly for Ireland. ## Ireland's middle-order collapse Ireland started strongly at 37-1 but lost captain Gaby Lewis for 11, stumped off Katherine Fraser's bowling. Amy Hunter top-scored with 39, while Orla Prendergast contributed 33, but spin from Gordon and Fraser derailed the chase. Gordon's three wickets in the same over left Ireland at 70-6, sealing Scotland's fourth straight win against Saturday opponents. Ava Canning finished with 3-27 as Ireland fell short of the target. ## Captains reflect on the game Scotland captain Kathryn Bryce, named player of the match, said: 'There's a lot of emotions flying around right at the moment—it was absolutely outstanding. Looking at the crowd, the support from both teams was outstanding, so massive thanks to everyone who has travelled down. I think the way Sarah attacked in the middle period made it really easy for me at the other end. I was really pleased to go out there and do that today and set the tone for the competition.' Ireland skipper Gaby Lewis added: 'I think it was the middle period where it went wrong. We had a good start and that middle period just slipped away. Scotland ran really well, played really well—so hats off to them. The momentum was with us early on, I guess if we had a better power play, but it’s hard to put a finger on what phase of the game cost us. It’s a long tournament, we still have four more games, and there are teams we think we can put up a fight against and beat. Regroup and stick together—that’s all I can say.' ## Next fixtures for both sides Ireland will face hosts England in Southampton on Tuesday, while Scotland will take on West Indies at Headingley on Thursday. The Scots secured their fourth consecutive victory against their Saturday opponents, while Ireland's winless streak continues.