Colombo, Feb 16 (NationPress) During the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, Sri Lanka faced a significant injury blow in their Group B match against Australia. Promising young fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana had to leave the field due to a concerning hamstring injury at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.

The incident took place early in Australia’s innings when Pathirana stopped abruptly in the middle of his opening over. After delivering the fourth ball, the 23-year-old suddenly grabbed his left hamstring and collapsed to the ground in evident pain.

Medical personnel promptly reached him, but the situation looked serious as he struggled to get back on his feet and ultimately required assistance to leave the field, unable to walk unaided. Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka had to complete his over, highlighting the suddenness and potential seriousness of the injury.

Pathirana’s departure came at a pivotal time for Sri Lanka, as Australia’s aggressive opening duo, Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head, unleashed a ferocious attack after being invited to bat first. The pair forged a commanding 104-run opening partnership off just 52 deliveries, establishing a strong foundation for Australia’s innings on a pitch that favored fast bowlers.

Australia’s aggression was clear from the start, racing to 70 without losing a wicket during the Power-play, marking their fourth-highest total in that phase in T20 World Cup history. Marsh, making a return from injury, confidently led the charge with 54 runs off 25 balls, while Head contributed 56 off 27 balls. Their explosive batting placed Sri Lanka under immediate pressure and invigorated the crowd in Pallekele.

Eventually, Head was dismissed by Dushan Hemantha after attempting a risky shot, followed shortly by Marsh, who was trapped in front by the same bowler. Sri Lanka’s bowlers, especially the spinners, mounted a commendable comeback after the explosive start. Hemantha played a vital role, while Dunith Wellalage and Kamindu Mendis restricted the scoring and chipped away at Australia’s middle order.

The shift in momentum became apparent as Australia collapsed from a solid position to 136 for 4 after 14 overs. The Sri Lankan bowlers maintained relentless pressure, energized by the passionate home crowd.

Australia tried to stabilize their innings with Glenn Maxwell and Josh Inglis, but Maxwell’s time at the crease was cut short by a spectacular catch from Pathum Nissanka at backward point. Despite having dropped a chance earlier, Nissanka delivered a stunning diving catch to dismiss Maxwell for 22, further diminishing Australia’s hopes of a late surge.

Hemantha shone as the standout performer, finishing with impressive figures of 3 for 37, marking his best return in T20 internationals, as Sri Lanka successfully bowled Australia out for 181 in their allotted 20 overs.

However, the focus remained on Pathirana’s injury. The young pacer, regarded as one of Sri Lanka’s most talented fast-bowlers, faces an anxious wait for further medical evaluation. His availability for the remainder of the tournament could be crucial for Sri Lanka's campaign, given his knack for delivering key breakthroughs and controlling the death overs.