Sri Lanka reinforced their T20 World Cup credentials with a commanding 105-run victory over Oman at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. Ranked eighth in the ICC T20 standings, Sri Lanka were clearly the favourites against Oman, who occupy the 20th position. After losing the toss and being asked to bat first, the hosts made full use of their batting depth to post a formidable 225 for 5 in 20 overs.
From the outset, Sri Lanka’s intent was evident. In the powerplay, they scored 58 runs for the loss of two wickets in the first six overs, followed by a further 88 runs in the next nine overs while losing only one wicket. The final five overs yielded another 79 runs, albeit at the cost of two wickets. Key contributions came from Kusal Mendis, who made 61 off 45 balls, Pawan Ratnayake with a brisk 60 from 28 deliveries, and captain Dasun Shanaka, who scored a rapid 50 off 20 balls. Shanaka’s innings included the fastest fifty for Sri Lanka in T20 internationals, while Ratnayake also achieved a 24-ball half-century. This performance helped Sri Lanka achieve their second-highest T20 World Cup team total, after the 260/6 against Kenya in 2007.
Oman struggled to establish a meaningful chase. Their powerplay yielded only 36 runs while losing three wickets, and despite some resistance, the innings never recovered. By the 10-over mark, Oman were 61 for 3, a situation reminiscent of India’s position against the USA in another match, but with fewer resources to fight back. Veteran Mohammed Nadeem was the lone standout for Oman, scoring an unbeaten 53 off 56 balls, supported modestly by Wasim Ali’s 27 and “Mr Extra” contributing 15. The 43-year-old Nadeem became the oldest player to score a T20 World Cup fifty at 43 years and 161 days, surpassing the previous record set by Netherlands’ Flavian Aponso in the 1996 ODI World Cup.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers ensured that Oman could not capitalise on any partnerships. Mahesh Tikshana and Dushmantha Chameera claimed two wickets apiece, while Vellalage picked up one. Oman’s innings ended at 120 for 9, confirming their elimination from the tournament.
With this win, Sri Lanka tops Group B with four points from two matches, placing them on a clear path to the Super Eight stage. Australia sit second with two points from one match, followed by Zimbabwe. Ireland and Oman remain without points.
Match Summary:
| Team | Score (Overs) | Top Scorers | Best Bowlers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sri Lanka | 225/5 (20) | K. Mendis 61, P. Ratnayake 60, D. Shanaka 50 | R. Ramanandi 2/41, S. Sufiyan 1/60 |
| Oman | 120/9 (20) | M. Nadeem 53*, W. Ali 27 | M. Tikshana 2/11, D. Chameera 2/19, V. Vellalage 1/17 |
Result: Sri Lanka won by 105 runs
Player of the Match: Pawan Ratnayake (Sri Lanka)
Sri Lanka’s clinical performance, combining explosive batting with disciplined bowling, highlighted their superiority and reinforced their status as serious contenders in the T20 World Cup.