Australia vs Sri Lanka Highlights, T20 World Cup Match 30 | Feb 16: Sri Lanka Chase 182 and Seal 8-Wicket Win To Strengthen Group B Lead

AUS vs SL 30th T20 World Cup Match Highlights saw Sri Lanka chase down 182 with ease at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, defeating Australia by 8 wickets with 12 balls to spare. The result put Sri Lanka at the top of Group B, while Australia remained in third position. Pathum Nissanka starred with an unbeaten century, steering his side home in a dominant batting display.

Sri Lanka elected to field first after winning the toss, exploiting early conditions that offered some assistance to their bowlers. Australia’s innings began explosively with Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head putting on a rapid 104-run partnership. Both batters struck freely, reaching half-centuries in quick time and setting a brisk pace of nearly 10 runs per over by the halfway mark. The initial acceleration gave Australia a strong platform, but wickets fell steadily thereafter, disrupting their momentum.

Sri Lanka’s bowlers applied controlled pressure through the powerplay and middle overs. Dushan Hemantha emerged as the key wicket-taker, removing Marsh, Head, and Glenn Maxwell. Spinners Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage also made critical inroads, restricting Australia to 181 all out in 20 overs. Despite the early flourish from Australia, the consistent breakthroughs ensured the total remained chaseable for the hosts.

The chase began cautiously for Sri Lanka, with Kusal Perera falling cheaply for 1 run. Pathum Nissanka anchored the innings, building partnerships with Kusal Mendis and later Pavan Rathnayake. The Nissanka-Mendis stand of 97 runs shifted momentum firmly in Sri Lanka’s favor, allowing the team to maintain a scoring rate above 10 per over. Nissanka’s aggressive strokeplay, including 10 fours and 5 sixes, ensured the target was reached comfortably with 12 balls remaining, leaving Australia’s bowlers searching for answers.

Australia attempted tactical variations through Marcus Stoinis and Nathan Ellis, but the home side’s adaptability and controlled batting depth proved decisive. The seamless integration of power-hitting and rotation of strike allowed Sri Lanka to complete the chase without requiring their lower order, highlighting their batting depth and strategic execution.

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Toss Winner

Sri Lanka, having won the toss, went with the fielding option.

Key Moment

The decisive turning point came when Dushan Hemantha removed both Marsh and Head in quick succession during the 10th over, curbing Australia’s early surge and setting the stage for a controlled chase by Sri Lanka.

Star Performer / MVP

Pathum Nissanka was the match-defining performer, scoring an unbeaten 100 off 52 balls with 10 fours and 5 sixes, anchoring Sri Lanka’s chase.

AUS vs SL Match Summary

AUS vs SL Playing XI

Australia: Mitchell Marsh (c), Travis Head, Cameron Green, Tim David, Josh Inglis †, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Cooper Connolly, Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis †, Pavan Rathnayake, Dasun Shanaka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage, Dushan Hemantha, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana

FAQs – Yesterday’s AUS vs SL 30th Match (Feb 16, 2026)

Q1: What was the final score of yesterday’s AUS vs SL match?
A1: Yesterday (16 February 2026): 30th Match, Group B
Australia (181 all out, 20 overs) was defeated by Sri Lanka (184/2, 18 overs) by 8 wickets.
Australia: Travis Head (56) and Mitchell Marsh (54) led the scoring.
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka (100*) anchored the chase, Kusal Mendis contributed 51.
Result: Sri Lanka secured top spot in Group B, Australia remained third.

Q2: Who was named the Player of the Match?
A2: Pathum Nissanka was named the Player of the Match for his unbeaten 100 off 52 balls, guiding Sri Lanka to victory.

Q3: Where was the match played, and who won the toss?
A3: The match was played at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to field first.

Q4: Who were the top performers with the bat for both sides?
A4: For Australia, Travis Head top-scored with 56, while Mitchell Marsh made 54. For Sri Lanka, Pathum Nissanka was the leading run-scorer with 100* and Kusal Mendis added 51.

Disclaimer: This match highlight is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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