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Fans go wild as Pathum Nissanka smashes a century to send Sri Lanka into the Super 8s in a win over Australia.

NetSPORT
By NetSPORT
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The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Sri Lanka witnessed a sensational night in Pallekele as they cruised into the Super 8 stage with an eight-wicket victory over Australia. The hero of the evening opened Pathum NissankaHis breathtaking unbeaten century sent fans into a frenzy and sealed a memorable victory.

Australia are at a competitive 181st after a strong start

Sri Lanka faced early trouble as Australia’s top order came under fire after winning the toss and picking up the trophy. Captain Mitchell Marsh scored 54 off 27 balls and Travis Head scored 56 off 29 balls. The pair shared a century stand that put Sri Lanka on the back foot during the power play.

However, Sri Lanka bounced back with disciplined bowling. Dushan Hemantha delivered a game-changing spell, claiming three crucial wickets including Marsh and Head. Support from Dushmantha Chameera and Maheesh Theekshana ensured Australia were restricted to 181 in 20 overs.

Despite late cameos from Glenn Maxwell and Josh Inglis, Australia’s middle and lower order buckled under the pressure.

Pathum Nissanka century shines in Pallekele

Chasing 182, Sri Lanka lost Kusal Perera early but were followed by a masterclass from Pathum Nissanka. Showing impeccable timing and composure, Nissanka anchored the innings while accelerating smoothly.

He remained unbeaten on a stunning 100 off just 52 balls, peppering the boundary strings with 10 fours and five sixes. His strike rate of over 190 highlighted his dominance over the Australian attack.

Nissanka forged a decisive partnership in Sri Lanka’s favor with the partnership of the smooth-talking Kusal Mendis. The duo added 97 runs, neutralizing Australia’s bowlers and maintaining control throughout the chase.

After Mendis’s dismissal, Nissanka found another able ally in Pavan Rathnayake, who struck a quick 28 not out. The pair took Sri Lanka to 184 for 2 in just 18 overs, sealing the win with two overs to spare.

Australia’s boulderers, including Adam Zampa and Nathan Ellis, struggled to find breakthroughs after settling in Nissanka. Marcus Stoinis was the only bowler to start picking up two wickets but it was not enough to stop the Sri Lankan attack.

The crucial victory secured Sri Lanka’s place in the Super 8 stage and sparked wild celebrations among the fans at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. Cheers erupted in the stands as Nissanka raised his stick to acknowledge the roaring crowd.

Also READ: Janhvi Kapoor, Ajay Devgn and other Bollywood celebrities react to India’s win over Pakistan in T20 World Cup 2026.

Here’s how the fans reacted:





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