Australia’s hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages of the 2026 T20 World Cup have been left hanging by a very thin thread after Mitch Marsh’s side suffered a brutal eight-wicket victory by Sri Lanka on Monday night in Pallekele.
After posting a lead of 181 in the first innings, with both Travis Head and captain Mitchell Marsh scoring half-centuries, Australia’s bowlers were swept away by the brilliance of Sri Lankan opener Pathum Nissanka, who struck an incredible 100 off 52 deliveries.
The Aussies will be eliminated from the competition if Zimbabwe beat Ireland on Tuesday. Zimbabwe sit two points clear of Australia, who are currently third in the Group B standings, having now lost to both Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe.
Marsh’s side return to action on Friday for their final group match against Oman.
Sri Lanka, meanwhile, have booked their passage through to the knockout stages, having gone unbeaten so far during the tournament.
Australia’s hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages of the 2026 T20 World Cup have been left hanging by a very thin thread after they suffered an eight-wicket defeat by Sri Lanka
Pathum Nissanka (pictured) struck an incredible century off 52 deliveries to lead his side to victory
The Aussies will be eliminated from the competition if Zimbabwe beat Ireland on Tuesday
More to follow…
