In a stunning display of batting prowess at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pathum Nissanka smashed a blistering century to lead Sri Lanka to an emphatic 8-wicket victory over Australia in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. This triumph, their third in a row, propelled the hosts into the Super 8 stage, marking a major upset against the formidable Australians.
Sri Lanka’s campaign had been flawless so far, with earlier wins over Ireland by 20 runs and a massive 105-run thrashing of Oman. Australia, on the other hand, entered the match on shaky ground after a 67-run win against Ireland was followed by a narrow 23-run loss to Zimbabwe. This defeat now makes it two consecutive shocks for the baggy greens.
Opting to bowl first after losing the toss, Sri Lanka’s bowlers dismantled Australia for 181 in their 20 overs. Travis Head and skipper Mitchell Marsh provided a fiery start, forging a 104-run opening stand in just 8.3 overs. Head blazed 56 off 29 balls, laced with 7 fours and 3 sixes, while Marsh hammered 54 off 27, including 10 boundaries.
Josh Inglis chipped in with 27 off 22, and Glenn Maxwell added 22, but Dusun Hemantha’s 3-wicket haul and Dushmantha Chameera’s brace ensured the innings folded. Chasing 182, Sri Lanka lost Kusal Perera early for 1 at 8, but Nissanka and Kusal Mendis steadied the ship with a 97-run partnership off 66 balls.
Mendis fell for 51 off 38 (6 fours, 1 six) at 105, but Nissanka, unbeaten on a match-winning ton, teamed up with Pavan Ratnayake for an unbroken 79 off 34 balls to seal the chase in 18 overs. Marcus Stoinis was Australia’s lone bright spot, claiming 2-46. This victory underscores Sri Lanka’s resurgence and sets the tone for their Super 8 campaign.