Nissanka’s brilliant century sends Sri Lanka into super eight, Australia on brink of exit

By Cricketing Country | Posted Posted Feb 17, 2026

A magnificent century from opener Pathum Nissanka powered Sri Lanka to an emphatic victory over Australia, sealing their place in the Super 8 stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

Playing in Kandy, Sri Lanka chased down Australia’s 182-run target with ease, winning by eight wickets. The hosts reached 182 for 2 in just 18 overs, leaving Australia on the brink of elimination from the group stage.

Nissanka starred with an unbeaten 100 off 52 deliveries, striking 10 fours and five sixes. Kusal Mendis contributed a fluent 51, while Pawan Rathnayake remained not out on 28 to guide the team home.

Nissanka’s ton was also the first century recorded in the 2026 edition of the tournament. Marcus Stoinis was the only bright spot with the ball for Australia, claiming both Sri Lankan wickets.

Earlier, after being sent in to bat, Australia were bowled out for 181 in their 20 overs. Openers Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head gave the innings strong momentum, putting together a century partnership that hinted at a total well beyond 180.

However, a late collapse prevented them from capitalizing fully. Head scored 56 and Marsh added 54, while Josh Inglis made 27 and Glenn Maxwell chipped in with 22. None of the remaining batters managed to reach double figures.

Australia were well placed at 160 for 4 after 16 overs but then lost six wickets for just 21 runs in a dramatic collapse. For Sri Lanka, Dushan Hemantha led the bowling effort with 3 for 37 in four overs. Dushmantha Chameera picked up two wickets, while Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, and Kamindu Mendis claimed one apiece.

With the win, Sri Lanka sit atop Group B with six points from three matches. Australia, meanwhile, have only two points from three games and are currently third in the standings.

Australia’s hopes of progressing to the Super 8 now depend on other results. If Zimbabwe defeat Ireland in tomorrow’s match, Australia will be knocked out.

To keep their campaign alive, Australia must beat Oman convincingly in their final group match and also hope Zimbabwe lose both of their remaining fixtures.