New Delhi: Australia captain Mitchell Marsh conceded his side was second best after an eight wicket loss to Sri Lanka left their T20 World Cup campaign hanging by a thread. Chasing 182 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Sri Lanka reached the target with two overs to spare to confirm their place in the Super 8 stage.
Marsh felt 181 was competitive but admitted Australia failed to capitalise after a flying start. He acknowledged that Sri Lanka outperformed his team and said qualification is now out of their hands. Australia, currently ranked No. 2 in the world, must rely on other results while ensuring a dominant win in their final group fixture.
Sri Lanka’s victory was powered by a magnificent unbeaten 100 from Pathum Nissanka off 52 balls. He combined with Kusal Mendis, who struck 51 from 38 deliveries, in a decisive partnership that kept the hosts in control. Pavan Rathnayake added an unbeaten 28 as Sri Lanka completed a record chase at the venue in 18 overs.
Australia had earlier looked set for a total beyond 200. Marsh smashed 54 from 27 balls on his return from injury, while Travis Head hammered 56 off 29. The opening pair raced to 104 inside nine overs. However, Sri Lanka fought back strongly through leg spinner Dushan Hemantha, who claimed three wickets, triggering a collapse that saw Australia lose four wickets for just six runs late in the innings.
Australia’s path to qualification is narrow. Zimbabwe must lose both remaining matches, including fixtures against Ireland and Sri Lanka. Australia also need a significant victory over Oman to improve their net run rate. A Zimbabwe win over Ireland would eliminate Australia before their final group match.
