Sri Lanka, who’re co-hosting the tournament, placed on a robust performance to beat Australia by eight wickets and book their spot within the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup. After Zimbabwe had already surprised everyone within the group, Sri Lanka delivered their very own big statement.
The win was driven by an excellent century from Pathum Nissanka, who became the primary player to attain 100 on this yr’s tournament. The opener attacked the Australian bowlers confidently and kept the run chase under control from start to complete.
When he reached his hundred, Nissanka celebrated with a “shush” gesture that quickly grabbed attention. His knock even had Sri Lankan legend Sanath Jayasuriya cheering loudly in the group.
This win meant so much for Sri Lanka. It was their first victory over Australia in almost three years, eight months and five days. On a very important night at home, Sri Lanka showed the world that they’re still a powerful force in international cricket.
Spin Power Helps Sri Lanka Down Australia
Sri Lanka’s spinners arrange the win by changing the course of the match after Australia had began strongly. Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head put together a 100-run partnership and seemed able to take their team to a really big total.
𝐍𝐨 𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝 😌
Pathum Nissanka defies gravity with an absolute screamer to dismiss Maxwell! 🤯
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— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 16, 2026
But once the spinners got here on to bowl, the sport modified. Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage and Kamindu Mendis picked up necessary wickets, and leg-spinner Dushan Hemantha had the largest impact of all. The Australian batters found it hard to handle the turning ball and lost control in the course of the middle overs as Sri Lanka slowly tightened their grip on the match.
Australia, who often do well in ICC tournaments, are actually in a tough situation. Their probabilities of reaching the Super 8 aren’t any longer fully of their control. They should beat Oman by an enormous margin and in addition hope that Zimbabwe don’t reach six points from their remaining games.
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