Nissanka’s Century Floors Australia, Sends Sri Lanka into Super Eights of T20 World Cup 2026

Sri Lanka registered a big victory against Australia in the latest ICC T20 World Cup clash. Their star opener, Pathum Nissanka, led the way by scoring a stunning century in the second innings, helping Sri Lanka reach the Super Eights stage of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

Batting first, Australia started the innings on a high note, as Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head played confidently in the Powerplay. They took down the Sri Lankan attack positively, showcasing Australia’s clear intent to post a big total.

After a tough Powerplay, Sri Lanka struck back by taking quick wickets, as Travis Head was dismissed by Hemantha for 56 runs in the 9th over. Soon after that, Cameroon Green and Mitchell Marsh were also sent back to the pavilion, helping Sri Lanka to come back into the game.

The middle order of the Aussies failed to launch a counterattack, as Sri Lankan spinners kept them under consistent pressure. A quick cameo by Glen Maxwell offered some resistance towards the end, but a stunning catch by Pathum Nissanka ended his stay at the crease for 22 runs. After the dismissal of Maxwell, the lower order was also removed quickly, with Australia getting bowled out for 181 in the first innings.

When Sri Lanka came out to chase the target, they stunned the Aussies with a strong display of power-hitting. Despite losing Kusal Perera in the second over, Pathum Nissanka stuck to his game and played positively to put the pressure back on the Australian bowlers. He was well supported by Kusal Mendis at the other end, who came in at number three after the dismissal of Perera.

After dominating the Powerplay, Pathum Nissanka kept playing his shots during the middle overs to keep the chase on track. Finally, he scored a remarkable 100 off just 52 balls to take the game away from the Aussies, helping Sri Lanka to complete the chase in just 18 overs. This was indeed a remarkable victory for Sri Lanka, as it allowed them to proceed to the Super Eights stage with three wins in three matches.