Most awaited night: Australia face Sri Lanka ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026
- 17 hours ago
- 2 min read
The spotlight is on Pallekele as Australia face Sri Lanka in a crucial Group B clash of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026.
The match will be played Today (February 16), with the first ball at 7.00 pm Sri Lankan time (12.30 am - February 17 Melbourne Time) at the Pallekele International Stadium, one of Sri Lanka’s highest-scoring T20 venues.
What’s at stake
Sri Lanka are unbeaten and sit near the top of the group. Australia, meanwhile, are under pressure after a shock loss to Zimbabwe. Another defeat could leave them on the brink of an early exit from the tournament.
Australia update
Australia welcome back Tim David from a hamstring issue, while Marcus Stoinis has been cleared after a hand scare. Captain Mitch Marsh remains under an injury cloud but completed training on match eve. Steve Smith has joined the squad in Sri Lanka but cannot play unless officially added to the 15-man World Cup squad.
Australia’s bowling remains unsettled, with selectors weighing changes after expensive outings in earlier matches.
Sri Lanka update
Sri Lanka suffered a major blow with star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga ruled out with a hamstring tear. Spin duties now rest heavily on Maheesh Theekshana, who has been outstanding in the opening games. The hosts’ middle order is in strong form, led by Kusal Mendis, who has scored back-to-back fifties.
Sri Lanka may lean on extra pace at Pallekele, where seamers often play a bigger role than at other local venues.
Head-to-head
Australia hold the overall edge in T20 World Cups, but Sri Lanka won the last meeting between the sides at Pallekele. History suggests a close contest in local conditions.
The bigger picture
Sri Lanka can all but secure progression with a win. Australia must win to keep their Super Eight hopes firmly alive — and may still need help from other results.
All signs point to a high-stakes, high-intensity night in Kandy.
More updates to come on AusNewsLanka.
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