Sri Lanka scripted history at Pallekele, demolishing Australia by 8 wickets to punch their Super 8 ticket in the T20 World Cup 2026. Chasing 182, they romped home in 18 overs, showcasing batting brilliance amid bowling setbacks.
Australia posted 181, fueled by Marsh’s 54 and Head’s 56 in a pivotal 104-run alliance. But Sri Lanka flipped the script. Nissanka’s unbeaten 100 from 52 deliveries, laced with 15 boundaries, dismantled the target, with Mendis’ 51 adding momentum.
Captain Shanaka hailed it as one of their best outings lately. ‘Thrilled with the bowling effort despite Pathirana’s absence,’ he said. ‘Our belief in ourselves and grasp of conditions shone through. Body language was elite—everyone wanted the ball or bat.’
Pathirana’s hamstring woes, atop Hasaranga’s unavailability, tested resolve, but Shanaka urged focus on silver linings. On Nissanka: ‘We knew it’d come. Fielding first was debated, but confidence prevailed amid shorter ropes.’
Hattrick of victories sends Sri Lanka soaring. ‘Super 8 entry after so long is massive,’ Shanaka grinned. ‘Grateful to supporters. Semifinal dreams alive.’ This upset underscores Sri Lanka’s tactical evolution and hunger for T20 supremacy.