Pathum Nissanka produced a breathtaking century to steer Sri Lanka to a commanding eight-wicket victory over Australia in their ICC T20 World Cup group-stage clash in Pallekele on Monday. The win not only secured Sri Lanka’s place in the Super Eight stage but also left the 2021 champions Australia staring at a possible early exit.

Chasing 182, Sri Lanka lost Kusal Perera early, but what followed was a masterclass from Nissanka. The opener hammered an unbeaten 100 off just 52 deliveries — his second T20I century — anchoring the chase with authority and flair. With this knock, he became only the second Sri Lankan after Mahela Jayawardene to score a century in a T20 World Cup.

It was also the second-fastest T20I hundred by a Sri Lankan, behind Kusal Perera’s 44-ball ton against New Zealand earlier this year.

Nissanka found strong support from Kusal Mendis, who struck a composed 51, and Pavan Rathnayake, who finished the game in style with a brisk 28 not out off 15 balls. The trio ensured Sri Lanka crossed the finish line with eight wickets in hand and two overs to spare — completing three wins in three matches in the group stage.

The chase of 182 is now Sri Lanka’s highest successful run chase in T20 World Cup history and the highest ever against Australia in the tournament.

Earlier, after winning the toss and choosing to field, Sri Lanka found themselves under pressure as Australia made a flying start. Returning captain Mitchell Marsh led from the front with a blistering 54 off 27 balls, sharing a 104-run opening stand that gave Australia the perfect platform.

However, the momentum shifted dramatically once the breakthrough came. Australia’s middle order failed to capitalise on the strong start, with only Josh Inglis (27) and Glenn Maxwell (22) offering modest contributions. The innings eventually folded at 181 in 20 overs.

Sri Lanka’s bowlers deserve equal credit for pulling things back. Dushan Hemantha led the charge with figures of 3 for 37, while Dushmantha Chameera chipped in with 2 for 36, ensuring Australia couldn’t push beyond a competitive but chaseable total.

With this result, Sri Lanka sit comfortably at the top of the group alongside Zimbabwe. Australia, now third with one win and two losses, must hope Zimbabwe falter in their final group game against Ireland to keep their campaign alive.

For now, though, the spotlight firmly belongs to Pathum Nissanka — a century that may well define Sri Lanka’s World Cup journey.