SL beat Australia to reach Super 8

2026-02-17 - 05:19

Sri Lanka stormed into the Super Eight stage of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup after defeating Australia in a crucial Group B clash yesterday (Feb. 16). The match, played at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, saw Sri Lanka successfully chase down Australia’s target of 182 runs, losing just 02 wickets and reaching the total in the 18th over. Pathum Nissanka recorded the first century of the tournament, remaining unbeaten on 100 off 52 deliveries, including 05 sixes and 10 fours. In support, Kusal Mendis scored 51 off 38 balls, while Pavan Rathnayake added an unbeaten 28 off 15 deliveries. The defeat has left the Australia national cricket team facing uncertainty regarding their progression in the tournament. Meanwhile, Matheesha Pathirana, who sustained an injury during the match, is scheduled to undergo a medical scan today (Feb. 17), according to Sri Lanka Cricket. The fast bowler is believed to have injured his left thigh while bowling, and the scan will determine the severity of the injury.