Sri Lanka's Historic Win Over Australia: A Landmark at T20 World Cup 2026

Sri Lanka triumphed over Australia by eight wickets at the Pallekele Stadium, thanks to Pathum Nissanka's 52-ball century, the first against Australia in T20 World Cups. This win secured Sri Lanka's spot in Super Eights and pushed Australia toward possible elimination depending on Zimbabwe's performance against Ireland.

In a riveting clash at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, Sri Lanka overpowered Australia by eight wickets at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, entering the Super Eights and nearly sealing Australia's fate for elimination. The victory, sparked by Pathum Nissanka's spectacular unbeaten century off just 52 balls, marked Sri Lanka's highest successful chase in the T20 World Cup history.

Pathum Nissanka's explosive performance, which earned him the Player of the Match honor, was not only the tournament's first century but also the first against Australia in T20 World Cup history, surpassing the previous record of 94 held by Pakistan's Umar Akmal. This victory was only the third instance of Sri Lanka beating Australia in a World Cup event, adding to their historic wins in 1996 and 2009.

The 27-year-old's century, equalling his own record for the second fastest by a Sri Lankan in T20Is, highlighted a commendable batting display alongside Kusal Mendis and Pavan Rathnayake, clinching the target of 182 with ease. Australia's position in the tournament is now precarious, hinging on Zimbabwe's outcome against Ireland.

(With inputs from agencies.)