The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 saw a thrilling match in Pallekele as Sri Lanka advanced to the Super 8 stage with an eight-wicket win over Australia. Openers Pathum Nissanka starred in the match with an impressive unbeaten century, leading Sri Lanka to a significant victory.
Australia sets a challenging target of 181
After winning the toss and choosing to bowl, Sri Lanka faced a tough challenge as Australia’s batsmen came out strong. Captain Mitchell Marsh scored 54 off 27 balls, with Travis Head contributing 56 off 29 deliveries. Their partnership of over 100 runs put Sri Lanka under pressure in the early overs.
Sri Lanka made a comeback with effective bowling. Dushan Hemantha took three crucial wickets, including those of Marsh and Head, supported by Dushmantha Chameera and Maheesh Theekshana. Australia was all out for 181 in 20 overs, despite some late runs from Glenn Maxwell and Josh Inglis as the middle and lower order failed to perform under pressure.
Pathum Nissanka shines with a century
In pursuit of 182 runs, Sri Lanka suffered an early loss with Kusal Perera’s dismissal. However, Pathum Nissanka played a remarkable innings, showcasing excellent timing and control.
Nissanka finished with an impressive 100 not out off 52 balls, hitting 10 fours and five sixes, with a strike rate exceeding 190. This performance was key in anchoring the innings.
Alongside Kusal Mendis, who scored a solid 51, Nissanka formed a crucial partnership, adding 97 runs and keeping Sri Lanka in a strong position.
After Mendis was out, Nissanka received good support from Pavan Rathnayake, who contributed an unbeaten 28. Sri Lanka reached 184 for 2 in just 18 overs, winning the match with two overs remaining.
Australia’s bowlers, including Adam Zampa and Nathan Ellis, struggled to break through once Nissanka settled. Marcus Stoinis was the only bowler to make a mark, taking two wickets, but it wasn’t enough to stop Sri Lanka.
This convincing victory secured Sri Lanka’s spot in the Super 8 stage, igniting celebrations in the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium as Nissanka acknowledged the crowd after his innings.
Here’s how fans reacted:
