Sri Lanka
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Sri Lanka booked their place in the Super 8 stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 with a commanding victory over Australia in a high-stakes Group B encounter, driven by a stunning unbeaten century from Pathum Nissanka — the first hundred of the tournament.
Chasing 181, Sri Lanka produced one of their most polished performances of the competition, sealing qualification while pushing Australia to the brink in what has become the tournament’s most unpredictable group.
Australia Set the Platform
Australia began aggressively, with Mitchell Marsh hammering 54 from 27 balls and Travis Head blasting 56 off 29. Their explosive opening stand dominated the powerplay and briefly put Sri Lanka on the back foot.
However, Sri Lanka clawed their way back through disciplined bowling in the middle overs, applying pressure and picking up timely wickets. Despite the early onslaught, Australia were restricted to 181 — a competitive total, but not out of reach.
Sri Lanka’s challenge grew steeper when pace spearhead Matheesha Pathirana was forced off the field early with calf discomfort, adding to the absence of Wanindu Hasaranga. Even so, the hosts responded with resilience.
Nissanka Leads a Famous Chase
At the heart of the pursuit was Pathum Nissanka, who set the tone from the outset. He reached his half-century in just 32 balls and then controlled the chase with authority, combining power with precision.
Nissanka finished unbeaten on 100 off 52 deliveries, striking 10 fours and five sixes, becoming the first centurion of the T20 World Cup 2026. Even as wickets fell around him, he remained composed, ensuring Sri Lanka stayed firmly on course.
Mendis Adds History
Support came from Kusal Mendis, who contributed a fluent 51 off 38 balls. It was his third consecutive half-century in this World Cup, placing him in rare company alongside Mahela Jayawardene, Virat Kohli, Babar Azam and KL Rahul.
Pressure Mounts on Australia
The defeat leaves Australia’s campaign hanging in the balance. Already wounded by an earlier loss to Zimbabwe, they now face a narrow path to qualification, with net run rate and other results likely to play a decisive role.
Sri Lanka Surge Forward
Sri Lanka, meanwhile, advance with confidence and momentum. With their top order firing and belief growing, they enter the Super 8 as a side peaking at the right moment.
In a tournament full of twists, this match may stand out as a turning point — and Pathum Nissanka’s unbeaten century as one of its defining moments.
