Cricket Kitchen

Australia Face Group-Stage Exit After 8-Wicket Defeat to Sri Lanka

February 17, 2026

 

Kathmandu – Sri Lanka defeated Australia by eight wickets in the T20 World Cup.

Chasing a target of 182 runs set by Australia, Sri Lanka comfortably reached the total in 18 overs, losing just two wickets. Pathum Nissanka starred in the victory with an unbeaten 100 runs, while Kusal Mendis contributed 51 runs.

Earlier on Monday night, Australia batted first and were bowled out for 181 runs in 20 overs.

With this win, Sri Lanka have secured three victories in three matches, earning six points and qualifying for the Super 8 stage.

Meanwhile, after suffering their second consecutive defeat, Australia now face the risk of elimination from the group stage. If Zimbabwe defeat Ireland on Tuesday, Australia will be knocked out of the tournament.

Australia are scheduled to play their final group-stage match against Oman next Friday.