Sri Lanka created history as they beat Australia by eight wickets in the 30th match of the 2026 WT20. It was a masterclass in run chase as they played risk free cricket and cruised home. Australia were batting first and got off to a flying start. Both openers, Marsh and Travis Head scored half centuries and they were going at an excellent rate. The openers put up a century partnership and they reached 104 in within nine overs before getting dismissed. Sri Lanka were hit by the injury of Pathirana but they struck back twice as Australia lost four quick wickets. They were reduced to 130/4 and Sri Lanka came back into the game. Australia had a poor finish as they collapsed and were bowled out for 181 at the end of the first innings. Hemantha was the pick of the bowlers for Sri Lanka picking up three wickets while Chameera also picked up two wickets and delivered a fine job.

Chasing a target of 182, Sri Lanka lost the wicket of Kusal Perera early but Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis put up a terrific partnership as they scored at a quick rate and played risk free cricket. Kusal Mendis completed his half century and was soon dismissed for 51 of 38 balls. Sri Lanka needed 61 runs of the last six overs at that stage.

Pavan Rathnayake started really well scoring a few boundaries and Pathum Nissanka shifted gears and seamless kept attacking. He scored a magnificent century as he finished unbeaten on 100 runs of just 52 balls. His innings included 10 fours and five sixes and it was a masterclass in chase. The Australian bowlers struggled a lot and no one could make a real impact.

Pathum Nissanka was the player of the match as Sri Lanka won by eight wickets and officially qualify for the Super 8 stage. It was a packed crowd at Kandy and they were treated to masterclass in batting as Nissanka and Mendis cruised home the chase. Australia now find themselves in a very tough position and need to win against Oman by a huge margin and hope that Zimbabwe lose their next two matches in order to have any chance.

Also Read | T20 World Cup 2026: How can Australia still qualify for Super 8?