Pathum Nissanka scored an unbeaten 100 off 52 balls to lead Sri Lanka to an eight-wicket win over Australia, leaving Australia’s fate reliant on other results for Super 8 qualification.
Sri Lanka chased down 182 to defeat Australia in their T20 World Cup match, powered by Pathum Nissanka’s unbeaten 100 off 52 balls. He struck 10 fours and 5 sixes and finished with a strike rate of 192.30. Sri Lanka reached the target with two overs remaining.
Chasing 182, Kusal Perera fell early for 1 off 3 balls. Nissanka and Kusal Mendis rebuilt the innings and added a 50-run stand. Mendis scored 51 off 38 balls with 6 fours and 1 six before falling to Marcus Stoinis. Pavan Rathnayake supported Nissanka with an unbeaten 28 off 15 balls, hitting 6 fours. Sri Lanka scored 61/1 in the power play and crossed 100 in 11.2 overs.
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Earlier, Australia had posted 181 in 20 overs after a strong start. Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head added 70 runs in the power play and reached a 100-run opening stand in just 50 balls. Head hit 56 off 29 balls with 7 fours and 2 sixes, while Marsh made 50 off 25 balls, hitting 8 fours and 2 sixes.
However, Sri Lanka struck back, removing Marsh on review and then taking simultaneous wickets. Australia slipped to 136/4 in 14 overs and lost wickets at regular intervals, ending with only 181.
Nissanka’s match-winning century earned him the Player of the Match award. This defeat leaves Australia relying on Ireland and Sri Lanka’s results to stay in contention.
Absolutly incredible run chase from Sri Lanka but take a bow Patham Nissanka, that was one of the best T20WC knocks!
— Aaron Finch (@AaronFinch5) February 16, 2026
Australia’s early exit will leave a bitter taste at the #T20WorldCup. Pakistan now have a great chance to reach the top four. I hope we learn from yesterday’s game and move forward with a positive mindset and the right team combination
— Mohammad Yousaf (@yousaf1788) February 16, 2026
Comprehension win that from Sri Lanka ..
— Herschelle Gibbs (@hershybru) February 16, 2026
Take a bow Nissanka 👏👏
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) February 16, 2026
Take a bow Sri Lanka 👏👏
What crowd. What atmosphere. What a run chase! #SLvAUS #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/MWfjc2cUZG
Phatum Nissanka just WOW!@OfficialSLC #WorldCup2026
— Mickey Arthur (@Mickeyarthurcr1) February 16, 2026
Sri Lanka with an unbelievable run chase against Australia — fearless, composed and full of character.
— Azhar Mahmood (@AzharMahmood11) February 16, 2026
Nissanka was absolutely brilliant at the top, and Mendis played a gem under pressure. Big-match temperament from both.
That’s how you chase! #SLvAUS
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