Pallekele | February 16, 2026 — In one of the biggest upsets of the tournament, Sri Lanka defeated Australia by eight wickets in a crucial Group-stage encounter of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, virtually pushing the defending giants to the brink of elimination.
After winning the toss, Australia opted to bat first and posted a competitive total of 181 all out in 19.4 overs. Openers Travis Head and captain Mitchell Marsh gave Australia a flying start, scoring half-centuries and stitching together a strong opening partnership. However, Sri Lankan bowlers struck back in the middle overs, triggering a collapse that prevented Australia from crossing the 190-run mark.
Chasing 182, Sri Lanka delivered a dominant batting display. Pathum Nissanka played a sensational unbeaten knock of 100 runs off 52 balls, anchoring the innings with precision and aggressive stroke play. He was well supported by Kusal Mendis, who contributed a crucial half-century. Sri Lanka comfortably reached 184/2 in 18 overs, sealing victory with 12 balls to spare.
The emphatic win marked Sri Lanka’s third consecutive victory in the league stage, confirming their place in the Super 8 round. The result has left Australia’s qualification hopes hanging by a thread. Their progression now depends on other group results, including the outcome of the Zimbabwe vs Ireland fixture. A win for Zimbabwe could officially eliminate Australia from the tournament at the group stage.
The defeat is being seen as one of Australia’s most shocking exits in recent T20 World Cup history, while Sri Lanka have emerged as serious contenders heading into the next phase.
🟢 Sri Lanka Squad
Dasun Shanaka (C), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (WK), Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage, Dushan Hemantha, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Dushmantha Chameera, Pavan Rathnayake.
🟡 Australia Squad
Mitchell Marsh (C), Travis Head, David Warner, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Cameron Green, Tim David, Josh Inglis (WK), Adam Zampa, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Ellis.
Player of the Match: Pathum Nissanka
Result: Sri Lanka won by 8 wickets
Impact: Sri Lanka qualify for Super 8; Australia on the verge of exit.
%20(1).jpg)
.png)
2 Comments