Sri Lanka, 12 February (Sports Desk)
In a dominant display during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, Sri Lanka crushed Oman by 105 runs in the 16th Match of Group B. The match took place on February 12, 2026, at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele, Sri Lanka. This was Sri Lanka’s second consecutive win in the tournament, propelling them to the top of Group B.
Match Summary
- Toss: Oman won the toss and elected to field first.
- Sri Lanka Innings: 225/5 (20 overs) Sri Lanka posted their highest total of the tournament so far (and one of the highest in T20 World Cup history at this venue), thanks to explosive batting.
- Oman Innings: 120/9 (20 overs) Oman never really threatened the chase, collapsing under disciplined bowling from Sri Lanka.
- Result: Sri Lanka won by 105 runs.
Sri Lanka Batting Highlights
Sri Lanka’s middle order dominated after early losses:
- Pathum Nissanka: 13
- Kamil Mishara: 8
- Kusal Mendis (wk): 61 (45 balls, 7 fours) – anchored the innings with composure.
- Pavan Rathnayake: 60 (28 balls, 8 fours, 1 six) – explosive knock, reached his maiden T20I fifty in just 24 balls (second-fastest by a Sri Lankan in T20 World Cups). He formed a crucial 94-run stand with Mendis for the third wicket.
- Dasun Shanaka (c): 50 (20 balls, 2 fours, 5 sixes) – provided a late flourish with Sri Lanka’s fastest T20I half-century (19 balls).
- Others: Kamindu Mendis 19*, Dunith Wellalage contributions in the end.
Oman’s bowling was led by Jiten Ramanandi (2/41), but they struggled to contain the aggression.
Oman Batting Highlights
- Mohammad Nadeem: Top-scored with around 50-53* (fighting effort but too little, too late).
- Rest of the lineup collapsed against Sri Lanka’s pace and spin attack.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers:
- Dushmantha Chameera: 2 wickets (including economical spells).
- Maheesh Theekshana: 2 wickets (tight control).
- Others chipped in to restrict Oman well below the target.
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Player of the Match
Pavan Rathnayake was adjudged Player of the Match for his blistering 60 off 28 balls. His aggressive innings shifted momentum decisively in Sri Lanka’s favor after early setbacks. In post-match comments, he mentioned enjoying playing spin and sticking to his natural game on a good batting wicket.
This victory showcased Sri Lanka’s batting depth and bowling discipline, setting them up strongly for upcoming challenges (like against Australia). Oman, despite the effort from Nadeem, faced a tough outing against the hosts.
