Australia’s T20 World Cup 2026 dreams hit a wall in Pallekele as Sri Lanka, led by Pathum Nissanka’s breathtaking century, romped home by 8 wickets to secure Super 8 qualification. The third straight win for the hosts turned the group stage on its head.
Prior results painted a clear picture: Sri Lanka’s 20-run edge over Ireland and 105-run rout of Oman showcased dominance. Australia bounced back from Zimbabwe’s 23-run upset with a 67-run Ireland win, but history repeated painfully.
Batting first post-toss loss, Australia reached 181. Head (56 off 29) and Marsh (54 off 27) exploded for 104 in 8.3 overs. Support came from Inglis (27) and Maxwell (22), but Hemantha’s three-for and Chameera’s two sealed their fate.
Sri Lanka’s pursuit began shakily—Perera out for 1 at 8—but Nissanka and Mendis’ 97 off 66 turned tides. Mendis’ gritty 51 ended at 105, paving way for Nissanka and Ratnayake’s 79* off 34 to wrap victory in 18 overs. Only Stoinis (2-46) resisted.
Nissanka’s ton symbolizes Sri Lanka’s home firepower, promising fireworks in the Super 8s while exposing Australia’s vulnerabilities.