In a crucial Group B match at the T20 World Cup 2026, the 2021 champions, Australia, will face co-hosts, Sri Lanka. While Sri Lanka has had a strong start, Australia is in a difficult position after a surprising loss to Zimbabwe.
The situation is quite different for both teams. Sri Lanka comes into this game with solid form. Their batting lineup, featuring strong performances from Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka, has been impressive. Their bowlers, led by Maheesh Theekshana, have adapted well to local conditions and pose a significant threat early in the innings.
On the other hand, Australia is struggling. Injuries to key players like Mitchell Marsh (groin) have impacted their play. A loss in this match would complicate their path forward, relying on other results. Travis Head and Glenn Maxwell need to deliver strong starts, while Marsh’s potential return could provide much-needed leadership.
AUS vs SL, T20 World Cup 2026: Match Details
- Date and Time: February 16; 07:00 pm IST / 1:30 am GMT
- Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele
AUS vs SL, Head-to-Head Record (T20Is)
Matches played: 26 | Australia won: 15 | Sri Lanka won: 10 | Tied/No result: 1
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report
The pitch is expected to be firm and dry, offering good conditions for batting at the start. Teams can take advantage of the new ball, as shown by Sri Lanka’s high score against Oman earlier. As the match continues, the pitch may begin to assist spinners and pace bowlers using slower deliveries, making it harder for batters. Historically, teams batting first have had a slight edge here, as chasing becomes more challenging as the ball ages and the pitch slows down.
Squads
Australia: Josh Inglis (wk), Travis Head (c), Cameron Green, Tim David, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Matthew Kuhnemann, Mitchell Marsh, Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Pavan Rathnayake, Dasun Shanaka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage, Dushan Hemantha, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, Pramod Madushan, Janith Liyanage
AUS vs SL, T20 World Cup 2026: Today’s Match Prediction
Case 1:
- Australia wins the toss and bats first
- Australia powerplay score: 40-50
- Australia total score: 150-160
Case 2:
- Sri Lanka wins the toss and bats first
- Sri Lanka powerplay score: 45-55
- Sri Lanka total score: 165-175
Match result: Team batting first to win the contest.
