T20 World Cup 2026: Sri Lanka seal Super Eight spot after defeating Australia by 8 wickets

Kandy (Web Desk): In the 30th match of the tournament, the Sri Lanka national cricket team produced a dominant performance to defeat the Australia national cricket team by eight wickets and secure qualification for the Super Eight round.

The match was played in the Sri Lankan city of Kandy, where Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to field first.

Batting first, Australia were bowled out for 181 runs in 20 overs, with the entire team falling in the final over of the innings.

Travis Head top-scored for Australia with 56 runs, while captain Mitchell Marsh contributed 54 runs.

Sri Lanka’s bowlers kept tight control, with Wanindu Hasaranga claiming three wickets and Dushmantha Chameera picking up two.

Chasing 181, Sri Lanka comfortably reached the target in 18 overs with only two wickets down.

Opening batter Pathum Nissanka starred with an unbeaten 100 off 52 balls, hitting 10 fours and five sixes. He was well supported by Kusal Mendis, who scored 52 off 38 deliveries.

Sri Lanka’s convincing victory placed them firmly into the Super Eight stage, while Australia now face a difficult path in the competition.