World Cup T20: India humbled Pakistan again
Captain Dasun Shanaka did not hold his own in the performance ratings against Australia.“One of the best performances in the recent past. I’m happy with how the first innings turned out,” said Shanaka. “After losing Pathirana, we were still very positive. We had confidence. We also knew about the goal. Everyone showed high body language. Everyone wanted to contribute.”Even injuries – with key bowlers Wanindu Hasaranga and Matheesha Pathiran unavailable – could not derail Sri Lanka’s momentum.“Hasaranga is missing and now Pathirana is a big miss. I need to take the good from there,” added Shanaka, reflecting a team drawing strength from adversity rather than excuses.Nissanka’s century signals the arrival of Sri LankaAt the heart of Sri Lanka was the sensational form of Pathum Nissanko, whose unbeaten 100 off 52 balls – the first century of the tournament – stunned Australia and sent a message to all competitors.“The wicket was pretty good today and I played my normal game. I’m happy that I was able to get a hundred and get the team home,” Nissanka said after his match-winning knock.He emphasized the importance of Sri Lanka’s aggressive approach at the start of the chase.“We needed a good power play. We got a good partnership with Kusal Mendis. And we were able to carry on from there and then it just went on in the innings and they pulled it off.”Nissanka also acknowledged Sri Lanka’s home advantage.“Normally we have a better wicket at Pallekele when we bat second. It’s a bit easier to chase,” he said.The strength of the homes and the momentum behind themSri Lanka’s Super 8 campaign will also be played entirely at home – a factor that could prove decisive. Familiar courses, passionate crowds and conditions tailored to their strengths created the perfect environment for a deep run.Shanaka made no secret of the team’s ambitions.“Awesome to qualify for the Super Eights. To get to the next round after many years. Hopefully we’ll get to the semi-finals as well. I have to thank the crowd,” he said.With form, confidence and home advantage at the right moment, Sri Lanka now have the look of a side that will peak at exactly the right time.Their dominant run has already knocked Australia to the brink and sent a warning across the competition.