Match 30 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 will feature a high-stakes clash between Australia and Sri Lanka at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.
This is one of the biggest games in Group B. Sri Lanka are in strong form and playing in familiar conditions, while Australia are under pressure after inconsistent performances. A loss here could put Australia’s qualification hopes in serious danger, making this a must-win contest for the former champions.
AUS vs SL Match Details
| Match Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Tournament | ICC T20 World Cup 2026 |
| Match | Australia vs Sri Lanka – Match 30 |
| Date | Monday, 16 February 2026 |
| Time | 7:00 PM IST |
| Venue | Pallekele International Cricket Stadium |
Match Preview
Australia
Australia have struggled to adapt to slow conditions in Sri Lanka. Their batting has been inconsistent, and key players like Travis Head, Marcus Stoinis, and Glenn Maxwell have not performed to their potential.
The possible inclusion of Steve Smith could bring stability to the top order. Despite their recent struggles, Australia are known for performing well under pressure in ICC tournaments.
Key Strengths
- Experienced match-winners
- Strong pace and spin combination
- Ability to handle pressure in big games
Key Concerns
- Poor top-order form
- Difficulty against spin-friendly conditions
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka have looked impressive in their last two matches, registering convincing wins. Playing at home gives them a big advantage, as their bowlers understand the conditions well.
Players like Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, and Dasun Shanaka will be key with the bat, while their spin attack has been very effective.
Key Strengths
- Familiarity with home conditions
- In-form bowling unit
- Balanced squad with good all-round options
Key Concerns
- Need a strong start from the top order
- Pressure in a high-profile match
Head-to-Head Record (T20Is)
| Teams | Matches Won |
|---|---|
| Australia | 15 |
| Sri Lanka | 10 |
| No Result | 1 |
Recent Form (Last 5 Matches)
| Team | Last 5 Matches |
|---|---|
| Australia | L, L, L, W, L |
| Sri Lanka | L, L, L, W, W |
Weather & Pitch Report – Pallekele
Weather
- Temperature: 17–19°C
- Humidity: 70–80%
- Rain: 10% chance
Pitch Report
- Good surface for batting early
- Spinners expected to play a key role later
- Balanced contest between bat and ball
Pallekele Stadium – T20I Stats
| Record | Stats |
|---|---|
| Total Matches | 31 |
| Bat First Wins | 16 |
| Bat Second Wins | 12 |
| No Result | 3 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 168 |
| Highest Score | 263/3 |
| Lowest Score | 88 |
Predicted Playing XI
Australia
- Steve Smith
- Travis Head (c)
- Josh Inglis (wk)
- Cameron Green
- Tim David
- Matt Renshaw
- Marcus Stoinis
- Ben Dwarshuis
- Nathan Ellis
- Adam Zampa
- Matthew Kuhnemann
Sri Lanka
- Pathum Nissanka
- Kamil Mishara
- Kusal Mendis (wk)
- Pavan Rathnayake
- Dasun Shanaka (c)
- Kamindu Mendis
- Dunith Wellalage
- Dushan Hemantha
- Dushmantha Chameera
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Matheesha Pathirana
Dream11 Fantasy Tips
Small League (Safe Picks)
Captain / Vice-Captain Options
- Travis Head
- Dasun Shanaka
- Tim David
- Dunith Wellalage
Grand League (High-Risk Picks)
Captain / Vice-Captain Options
- Marcus Stoinis
- Steve Smith
- Kusal Mendis
- Pavan Rathnayake
AUS vs SL Dream11 Prediction – Who Will Win?
Sri Lanka have the advantage of playing in home conditions and are coming into this match with better recent form. Their bowlers have adapted well to the surface, and their team looks balanced.
Australia, however, are a dangerous side in ICC tournaments, especially when under pressure. If their batting unit clicks and adapts to the conditions, they have the ability to turn the game around.
Considering their big-match experience and overall ICC history, Australia still hold a slight edge.
Predicted Winner: Australia
Injury Update
| Team | Status |
|---|---|
| Australia | No injury updates |
| Sri Lanka | No injury updates |
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