ISLAMABAD: Sri Lanka produced a powerful batting performance to set a challenging total against Oman in their Group B encounter at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on Thursday.
After winning the toss, Oman captain Jatinder Singh chose to field, hoping to exploit early moisture in the wicket at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. Sri Lanka’s innings began with early setbacks, however, as Kamil Mishara and Pathum Nissanka both fell cheaply, leaving the hosts under early pressure.
Sri Lanka’s middle order responded emphatically. Kusal Mendis anchored the innings with an authoritative 61 off 45 deliveries, guiding his side through a testing phase and accelerating when needed. Building on that platform, Pavan Rathnayake also played a composed innings, adding crucial runs at tempo to push Sri Lanka’s total into dangerous territory.
Captain Dasun Shanaka contributed with brisk scoring, further stretching the partnership momentum and ensuring Sri Lanka did not lose impetus after the early losses. By the end of their allotted twenty overs, Sri Lanka had posted a commanding 225 for 5, one of the highest scores in the tournament so far.
Oman’s bowlers toiled hard but lacked consistent breakthroughs, with only occasional successes punctuating Sri Lanka’s otherwise fluent innings. The target sets up a daunting chase for Oman, who will need their top order to fire if they are to compete effectively.
