Australia are staring at a shock first-round exit after a crushing eight-wicket defeat to Sri Lanka, powered by a sensational century from Pathum Nissanka. Chasing 182 in Pallekele, Sri Lanka raced to 184-2 in just 18 overs, sealing their Super 8s spot alongside England in Group 2.
Earlier, Australia posted 181 all out despite a blazing 104-run opening stand between captain Mitchell Marsh (54 off 27) and Travis Head (56 off 29). However, a dramatic collapse saw them lose their last five wickets for just seven runs.
Nissanka then delivered a masterclass, smashing an unbeaten 100 off 52 balls, including 10 fours and five sixes. He shared a 97-run partnership with Kusal Mendis (51 off 38) before finishing the chase in style. Nissanka also impressed in the field, taking a stunning catch to dismiss Glenn Maxwell.
Australia must now rely on other results and beat Oman convincingly to keep their qualification hopes alive, with net run rate likely to prove decisive.
