Sri Lanka national cricket team secured a commanding eight-wicket victory over the Australia national cricket team in the 30th match of the T20 World Cup at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.
After winning the toss, Sri Lanka opted to field first, inviting Australia to set a target in the Group B encounter. The decision paid off despite a competitive total from the Australians.
Batting first, Australia posted 181 runs before being bowled out in their allotted overs. Opener Travis Head led the charge with 56 runs, while captain Mitchell Marsh contributed 54. Josh Inglis added 27 runs, and Glenn Maxwell chipped in with 22.
However, the middle and lower orders failed. Tim David managed just 6 runs, while Marcus Stoinis scored 4. Cooper Connolly and Cameron Green both made 3 runs each. Adam Zampa added a single run, while Xavier Bartlett was dismissed without scoring.
Chasing 182 for victory, Sri Lanka comfortably reached the target, losing just two wickets in the process. The clinical run chase ensured a dominant win, strengthening Sri Lanka’s position in Group B while leaving Australia under pressure in the tournament standings.
Pathum Nissanka played an unbeaten knock of 100 off 52 balls
Sri Lanka’s opening batsman Pathum Nissanka played an unbeaten knock of 100 off 52 balls, smashing 10 fours and 5 sixes.
Kusal Mendis contributed a solid 51 off 38 balls, while Kusal Perera was dismissed for just one run. Pawan Ratnayake remained not out on 28. Marcus Stoinis claimed both wickets for Australia.
Earlier, Australia posted 181 runs batting first, setting Sri Lanka a target of 182 for victory.
Half-centuries from captain Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head went in vain. Josh Inglis scored 27 runs, while Glenn Maxwell added 22.
Dushan Shanaka picked up three wickets, and Maheesh Theekshana claimed two.
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