Sri Lanka booked their place in the Super 8 stage of the ICC T20 World Cup after a remarkable chase against Australia national cricket team, powered by a stunning century from Pathum Nissanka.

Playing under lights in Pallekele, Sri Lanka achieved something they had never done before in a T20 international at home — chasing down a target close to 180. Nissanka led from the front with an unbeaten 100 off 52 balls, striking boundaries at will and keeping the chase firmly in control. His innings combined aggression with composure, as he paced the pursuit smartly and punished anything loose.

Sri Lanka reached the target with two overs to spare and eight wickets in hand, sending the home crowd into celebration. The victory confirmed their entry into the Super 8s and significantly boosted their campaign in the tournament.

Nissanka found solid support from Kusal Mendis, who partnered him in a crucial second-wicket stand worth nearly a hundred runs. Late in the innings, Pavan Rathnayake added quick runs to ensure Sri Lanka finished strongly.

Earlier, Australia looked set for a dominant total after a blistering start. Travis Head launched an aggressive assault at the top, scoring a rapid half-century, while captain Mitchell Marsh maintained the momentum with powerful hitting. At one stage, Australia appeared headed for a massive total.

However, Sri Lanka clawed back into the match with disciplined bowling in the middle overs. Dushan Hemantha delivered a decisive spell, breaking partnerships and slowing the scoring rate. Spin from Wanindu Hasaranga further tightened the pressure, while Dushmantha Chameera controlled the final overs effectively.

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The result leaves Australia in a difficult position in the tournament standings. Their path to qualification now depends on winning upcoming matches and results from other teams going their way.

For Sri Lanka, the night belonged to Nissanka. His century was not just match-winning but historic — a statement performance that underlined the team’s intent and confidence heading into the Super 8 stage.