T20 World Cup 2026: Sri Lanka stormed into the Super 8s of the T20 World Cup 2026 as Pathum Nissanka’s brilliant century, supported by Kusal Mendis’ fluent half-century, powered them to a dominant win over Australia. The defeat leaves the 2021 champions on the brink of elimination, needing other results to keep their campaign alive.
Pathum Nissanka scored a 100 against Australia. (Photo Credits: AFP)
Sri Lanka batter Pathum Nissanka was in sublime form against Australia in the T20 World Cup 2026 fixture as he smashed a brilliant hundred to take his side over the line by 8 wickets in Pallekele. The Lankan Lions were asked to chase 182 and riding on Nissanka's stunning knock, the home side achieved the target with 2 over to spare. With this win, Sri Lanka have qualified for the Super 8s.
The right-handed opening batter remained unbeaten at 100 off 52 while Kusal Mendis notched up a fifty. Pavan Rathnayake chipped in with 28* off 15.
Absolutly incredible run chase from Sri Lanka but take a bow Patham Nissanka, that was one of the best T20WC knocks!
— Aaron Finch (@AaronFinch5) February 16, 2026
The Sri Lankan batters thoroughly dominated the Australian bowlers to etch a win.
Earlier, Australia were off to a brilliant start as captain Mitchell Marsh and his opening partner Travis Head chipped in with an opening stand of 104 runs. Both the players notched up individual fifties before Head went back for 56 off 29. His fall of wicket was followed by Australia suffering a collapse and eventually getting bundled out for 181.
Dushan Hemantha picked up three wickets for 37 runs in 4 overs.
"The wicket was very good today and he was able to play his normal game. Very happy to get the hundred. We needed a good powerplay, had a good partnership with Kusal (Mendis)," Pathum Nissanka said after the match.
"Usually, it is a bit easier to chase and the wicket seemed to get better. Not much dew. I was trying to back my strengths, and was waiting for it. Happy to get several of those balls to his strength and happy to get those boundaries," he added.
"One of the best performances in recent past. Really happy with how it went. We were still positive after losing Pathirana. We had that confidence and knew about the wicket. Each and everyone showed the body language high today. Everyone wanted to contribute somehow. Chameera, Theekshana, Hemantha, we talked about him a lot (after the last game), he delivered today. Missing Hasaranga and Pathirana is a big miss. But luckily we got a cover for Hasaranga. We cannot control that. We need to take the good things from here. Happy with how the proceedings went, especially Pathum's ton. We will continue this for the rest of the tournament," captain Dasun Shanaka said.
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