Travis Head played very well today as Australia faced Sri Lanka in the T20 World Cup 2026. From the start, he hit the ball very hard and scored big sixes. His strong hitting gave Australia a great start and excited the fans.

Dushan Hemantha tried to stop him, but Travis was too good. He timed the ball perfectly and hit several huge sixes. Every shot made the crowd cheer, and Australia looked strong in the first few overs.

Travis Head’s hitting helped his team score quickly and showed why he is one of Australia’s best T20 players. His brave and fast batting gave Australia confidence in today’s important match.

Watch the video here :

Pure aggression from Travis Head! 🔥

The Australian openers have provided a blazing start here.

ICC Men’s #T20WorldCup | #SLvAUS | LIVE NOW ➡️https://t.co/J53l5oud0B pic.twitter.com/RlHEOt6b6k

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 16, 2026

Australia on the Brink of T20 World Cup 2026 Elimination After Loss to Sri Lanka

The Australian cricket team is now very close to being knocked out of the T20 World Cup 2026 after losing their third Group B match to Sri Lanka by eight wickets on Monday at the Pallekele Stadium in Kandy.

The win gave Sri Lanka, who are co-hosts and ranked eighth in ICC T20Is, a place in the Super 8 stage. For Australia, which is ranked number 2 in the world, this loss is a big setback. They will play Oman in their final group match on Saturday, but they could still be eliminated if Ireland beats Oman on Tuesday.

Also read -Watch: Suryakumar Yadav recreates ‘Hera Pheri’ moment with Kuldeep Yadav after India vs Pakistan T20 WC 2026 clash

Pathum Nissanka Stars as Sri Lanka Chases 182

Sri Lanka needed 182 to win, and Pathum Nissanka played brilliantly, scoring 100 not out off 52 balls. Dushan Hemantha also bowled well, taking 3 wickets for 37 runs.

Marcus Stoinis gave Australia an early breakthrough by dismissing Kusal Perera in the second over. But Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis fought back, taking Sri Lanka to 61/1 at the end of the powerplay. Both batters reached their fifties in the 12th over, but Mendis was dismissed soon after. Pathum continued to hit big shots with help from Pavan Rathnayake, who hit the winning four to seal the victory.

Australia Started Strong but collapsed

Australia batted first and started very aggressively. Openers Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head attacked from the first ball. Marsh, returning after injury, hit five consecutive fours in the sixth over, and Australia reached 70/0 at the powerplay. Head hit his fifty in just 27 balls.

But after Head got out, Australia lost wickets quickly. Cameron Green, Marsh, and Tim David fell in a small period, leaving the team at 130/4. Josh Inglis and Glenn Maxwell tried to rebuild, but both were out soon, leaving Australia at 174/6. In the last overs, they scored only 7 runs as Sri Lanka’s bowlers, led by Dushan Hemantha, controlled the game and ensured a comfortable win for the hosts.

AUS vs SL 30th Match Preview:

Australia suffered a 30-run defeat against Zimbabwe, making this a do-or-die match for Australia. Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe have already won 2 matches in Group B. Australia currently sits in third place. Matt Renshaw is the lone performer from the Australian side.

 Australia needs match-winning performances from Travis Head and Glenn Maxwell to cement their place in the Super-8. On the other hand, Sri Lanka defeated Ireland and Oman and is now looking for a win against Australia. Kusal Mendis has been in good touch, and Sri Lanka has home advantage, making this an exciting contest to watch.

AUS vs SL Today Match Prediction – ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, 30th Match | Who Will Win?

Recent Performance: 

AUS: L, W, L, L, L

SL: W, W, L, L, L

AUS vs SL Match Details:

• Series/Tournament: ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026
• Match: AUS vs SL 
• Date: 16th Feb. 2026
• Match Start Time: 07:00 PM IST
• Stadium/Venue: Pallekele International Stadium, Sri Lanka. 
• Live Score: cricketwinner.com
• Live Streaming: Star Sports Network and JioHotstar

Head-to-Head Stats:

Weather Report:

• Temperature: 24-25
  
• Rain Chances: 8%
  
• Conditions: Cloudy

 The weather report for this match is good.

Pallekele International Stadium Pitch Report: 

Pallekele International Stadium pitch is neutral. Spinners got a fair amount of assistance as the match progressed.

• Win Batting First: 50%
  
• Win Bowling First: 44%
  
• Best Suited For: Spinners (55%)

Average Scores

• Average 1st Innings: 168
  
• Average 2nd Innings: 145

Winning the toss and batting first could be the ideal strategy.

AUS vs SL Probable Playing 11

Australia (AUS) Probable 11:

Travis Head (c), Josh Inglis (wk), Cameron Green, Matt Renshaw, Glenn Maxwell, Tim David, Marcus Stoinis, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Matthew Kuhnemann

Sri Lanka (SL) Probable 11:

Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka (c), Dushan Hemantha, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana

Top Picks from Australia 

Top Picks from Sri Lanka 

AUS vs SL Captain & Vice-Captain Choices:

AUS vs SL Fantasy Team Suggestion:  

AUS vs SL Dream11 Tips: 

Match Prediction – Who Will Win

The Australian team is having a hard time in the shortest format. Key players like Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, and M Marsh are not performing well. However, Australia has a strong record against Sri Lanka, and the Pallekele pitch offers assistance to batters in the initial phase, making the Aussies the favourites in this contest. 

Prediction: AUS to win.

Disclaimer: This analysis and prediction are based on team form, pitch conditions, and available data. It is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee any result.

The Pallekele International Cricket Stadium will host the 30th match of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, which will take place between Australia and Sri Lanka. This match is crucial for both teams due to the fact that the winner will qualify for the Super 8. The Australian team suffered an upset in their previous match and lost to Zimbabwe by 23 runs. The Australian team failed to reach their target of 170 runs and ended up with 146 runs.

Sri Lanka has performed well in this tournament and is at the top of the points table in Group B after winning both their matches. They won their last match against Oman with a margin of 105 runs.  Sri Lanka scored 225 runs in their 20 overs while batting first. Wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis scored 61 runs in 45 balls, while Pavan Rathnayake scored 60 runs in 28 balls.

Also Read: T20 World Cup 2026: Match 30, AUS vs SL, Probable Playing 11, Where To Watch, Live Streaming Details

AUS vs SL Match Details

• Match: Australia vs Sri Lanka, 30th Match

• Date: 16th February 2026

• Time: 7.00 PM IST

• Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallakele 

• Live Streaming: JioHotstar 

AUS vs SL Weather Report

Pitch Report - Pallekele International Cricket Stadium 

There isn't much for the fast bowlers on the track. Spinners enjoy a good record as the surface lets them grip and run the ball. 

• High-scoring pitch

• Flat surface

• Spin-friendly 

AUS vs SL Recent Form

AUS vs SL Head-to-Head Record

• AUS Wins - 16

• SL Wins - 10

Top Batters to Watch – AUS vs SL

• Kusal Mendis (SL): 117 runs in this tournament 

• Matt Renshaw (AUS): 102 runs in this tournament 

• Pavan Rathnayake (SL): 65 runs in this tournament 

Top Bowlers to Watch – AUS vs SL

• Maheesh Theekshana (SL): 5 wickets in this tournament 

• Nathan Ellis (AUS): 4 wickets in this tournament 

• Adam Zampa (AUS): 4 wickets in this tournament 

AUS vs SL Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1: If AUS bats first

• Powerplay Score: 45–50

• Predicted Total: 150–160

• Match Result: SL to win

Scenario 2: If SL bats first

• Powerplay Score: 50–55

• Predicted Total: 170–180

• Match Result: SL to win

Who Will Hit the Most Sixes?

Who Will Hit the Most Fours?

AUS vs SL Predicted Playing XIs

Australia 

Travis Head (c), Josh Inglis (wk), Cameron Green, Tim David, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Matthew Kuhnemann.

Sri Lanka 

Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Dushan Hemantha, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana.

Why Sri Lanka is the favourite today

• Home conditions 

• Experience middle-order 

• Good spin bowler 

AUS vs SL Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today?

Based on current form, team balance, and superior batting strength, Sri Lanka are the favourites to win this ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara and Kusal Mendis are expected to be the key performers.

Winning chances

AUS: 45%

SL: 55%

AUS vs SL Match FAQs

The Sri Lanka Cricket Board has declared the ODI squad for the tour of Australia to Sri Lanka scheduled on 12th and 14th February, 2025. The two-match ODI series will be held at the historic R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo.

Squad Summary
The 16-player squad will be headed by Charith Asalanka, who takes the helm as the skipper. A good balance of old hands and promising youngsters would mean Sri Lanka challenging the Aussies on their home turf.

Squad:

1. Charith Asalanka (C)
2. Pathum Nissanka
3. Avishka Fernando
4. Kusal Mendis
5. Kamindu Mendis
6. Janith Liyanage
7. Nishan Madushka
8. Nuwanidu Fernando
9. Dunith Wellalage
10. Wanindu Hasaranga
11. Maheesh Theekshana
12. Jeffrey Vandersay
13. Asitha Fernando
14. Lahiru Kumara
15. Mohamed Shiraz
16. Eshan Malinga

The Sri Lanka Cricket Selection Committee selected the above 16-member squad to play in the two-match ODI series vs Australia._

The RPICS in Colombo will host the first ODI on February 12 and the second on February 14. Both games are day games. The match starts at 10 am.… pic.twitter.com/Mr2QyirnVZ

— Sri Lanka Cricket 🇱🇰 (@OfficialSLC) February 10, 2025

ALSO READ:Kane Williamson Ends ODI Century Drought with Stunning Knock

Key players to watch:

Charith Asalanka (C)
Asalanka's leadership has been a major boost for Sri Lanka in the recent past. His middle-order control and the ability to lead from the front are crucial in this series.
Wanindu Hasaranga
One of the best white-ball all-rounders, Hasaranga's leg-spin and batting skill set make him an automatic inclusion against Australia.
Kusal Mendis
Mendis comes into the playing XI with good batting experience, consistency, and providing stability for a long period to the batting order.
Wellalage  & Theekshana 
The spin duo of Wellalage and Theekshana is likely to test the Aussie batsmen considerably, especially on spin-friendly pitches.

In February 2025, Australian wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey achieved a remarkable milestone in the history of Australian cricket. During the second Test of Australia’s tour of Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium, Carey set a new record for the highest individual score by an Australian wicketkeeper-batter in Sri Lanka. Australian wicketkeeper-batters with the highest individual scores in Test matches in Sri Lanka:

• Alex Carey
• Ian Healy
• Adam Gilchrist

Alex Carey etches his name in history👏

A batting masterclass as he notches the highest individual score by an Australian wicketkeeper-batter in Sri Lanka.#SLvsAUS #AlexCarey pic.twitter.com/PqpoGWuCeg

— CricTracker (@Cricketracker) February 8, 2025

Australia's Growth in Subcontinent Conditions 

ALSO SEE : MS Dhoni’s Luxurious Ranchi Farmhouse Gets a Stunning Makeover with Iconic No.7

Australia has had difficult times playing in the subcontinent, generally not being able to come to terms with the spin-friendly wickets of the subcontinent, at least, the slow turning wickets there. However, players like Alex Carey would do their good part in rewriting that script for Australia. Such innings by Carey from Sri Lanka are evidence of how this team is learning to cope with the subcontinent conditions. These performances against tough bowling speaks volumes of the strength gaining in Australia's batting lineup to put a composed performance in the matters involving spin.
The record-breaking knock of Carey is another important moment in Australian cricket. While big names like Steve Smith and David Warner often hog the limelight, contributions by players like Carey are becoming increasingly important for Australian cricket. He would go down in history not just for his crucial moment for the team but for generations of cricketers as an inspiration who will face challenges and adjust to the most trying conditions. It was a lesson in resilience and adaptability in order to achieve success at international levels.

Travis Head Wicket Celebration on Feb 6, 2025: AUSTRALIA VS SRI LANKA

Match details

•   Venue: Galle international stadium
•  Date: 6th to 10th february 2025
•  Series: Australia tour of Sri Lanka

The second Test match on February 6, 2025, between Australia and Sri Lanka in Galle, all-rounder Travis Head of Australia was the 'Man of the Moment' as he celebrated a wicket caught by Steve Smith at slip of Sri Lankan batsman Kamindu Mendis behind, which seemed to be phenomenal for the viewers and commentators watching the game. This light-hearted gesture was a humorous nod to his occasional but effective contributions as a part-time bowler, acknowledging those rare moments when he steps up to provide key breakthroughs for his team.

ALSO READ: Major Changes for champions Trophy in Australia: Cummins & Hazlewood Out, New Faces Added to ODI Squad

This wasn’t just a one-off incident. It reminded fans of another quirky celebration during a Test match against India in December 2024. After taking the wicket of Rishabh Pant, Head made a curious gesture: he formed a circle with one hand and playfully inserted his index finger from the other hand into it.Though he isn't a regular bowler, he has given key breakthroughs when needed. More than scoring runs or taking wickets, it was all about enjoying the moment, be it with the bat, ball, or even in a memorable celebration, which kept the crowd entertained.

The wicket celebration from Travis Head. 😄 pic.twitter.com/vuMw5FSCe9

— Praveen kumar (@Naninaidu98) February 6, 2025

Travis Head's style of celebration on wickets reminds everyone that cricket is more than just a game of skill, strategy, and competition; it is also about fun, excitement, and personality. His celebrations are unique and entertaining, and players can have a good time and perform at their best. Humor and energy plus reactions keep the mood light on the field, which may help ease pressure during the long, tense match. In addition, the playful approach of Head serves to strengthen team spirit. Indeed, such moments will add laughter and, consequently, camaraderie among the teammates.

Australian team gave a heartwarming guard of honour to Sri Lankan cricketing star Dimuth Karunaratne as he walked out to bat in his 100th and final Test match. It was beautiful respect and admiration for this cricketing star from the cricketers around from the world.

A Tribute Fit for a Legend
Karunaratne has been a rock for over a decade at the top of Sri Lanka's batting lineup, and playing 100 Test matches is something that only a few cricketers achieve in their careers. Therefore, retirement at this peak moment makes it all the more special.
For the final time as a cricketer, the Australians prepared their formation, where one after the other stepped up and handed Karunaratne the honour guard before the crease while they were all clapping at him. The action demonstrated pure sportsmanship apart from Australia.Coming generations will speak about Karunaratne contributed to cricketing.

Australian team giving Guard of Honour to Dimuth Karunaratne on his Final & 100th Test Match.

- DIMUTH KARUNARATNE, THE LEGEND FOR SRI LANKA. 🙇 pic.twitter.com/eTCmorlRpM

— Tanuj Singh (@ImTanujSingh) February 6, 2025

A Lasting Legacy
Karunaratne has been one of Sri Lanka's most dependable openers who has guided the team through difficult matches and led by example with his composure and leadership. Many match winning performances have came from him as one of Sri Lanka's greatest cricketers.
Even though he is handing over his cricket in Test cricket to the next stars, the impact he has made for Sri Lanka Cricket will last for years.
ALSO READ: MARCUS STOINIS RETIRED FROM ODI FORMAT

Dimuth Karunaratne, a legend, a leader, and an inspiration!

AUS vs SL Match Preview

Australia will play two Tests against Sri Lanka, followed by two ODI's. Steve Smith will captain Australia in the absence of Pat Cummins. Australia will enter the Test series off the back of a historic 3-1 win over India. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka has no realistic chance of reaching the World Test Championship final after losing six of their first eleven matches this cycle.

AUS vs SL Match Details

Australia vs Sri Lanka – 1st Match, Test Match

Venue: Galle International Stadium, Galle

Date & Time: 29th January 2025 at 10:00 AM IST 

Live Streaming: FanCode

AUS vs SL Venue Stats

AUS vs SL Pitch Report

There will always be something to do for spin bowlers, and we expect this to be no exception on Tuesday evening. Both teams will aim to play positively, but with the understanding that a score of 175 in the initial innings is likely to be challenging. 

AUS vs SL Weather Report

Based on the forecast, the humidity will increase gradually throughout the evening. Clear skies and temperatures above 25 degrees throughout.

AUS vs SL Last Five Matches

AUS vs SL Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Hobart Hurricanes Win First BBL Title

AUS vs SL Probable Playing XIs:

Sri Lanka Probable Playing XIs

Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Dimuth Karunaratne, Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Jeffrey Vandersay, Asitha Fernando, Vishwa Fernando, Lahiru Kumara

Australia Probable Playing XIs

Steve Smith (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Travis Head (vc), Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster

Topmost Picks for AUS vs SL Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Australia

• Steve Smith – The Australian captain and a key batsman, known for his exceptional batting skills and ability to perform under pressure.
• Nathan Lyon – An experienced Australian bowler, known for his skill in taking wickets on spin-friendly pitches.

Top Picks – Sri Lanka

• Dimuth Karunaratne – A seasoned Sri Lankan batsman, recognized for his experience and ability to perform well in Test matches.
• Prabath Jayasuriya – A skilled Sri Lankan spinner, capable of taking wickets on spin-friendly pitches and winning crucial matches for the team.

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for AUS vs SL Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Dimuth Karunaratne, Steve Smith, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head(C), Dhananjaya de Silva, Kamindu Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya(VC), Scott Boland, Nathan Lyon

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for AUS vs SL Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Alex Carey, Dimuth Karunaratne, Steve Smith(C), Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head, Dhananjaya de Silva, Kamindu Mendis(VC), Prabath Jayasuriya, Scott Boland, Nathan Lyon

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Travis Head, Steve Smith

Vice-captain – Prabath Jayasuriya, Kamindu Mendis

Wicketkeeper – Kusal Mendis

AUS vs SL Probable Winners:

Australia’s strong batting lineup, potent pace attack, and reliable spin bowling option make them a formidable opponent for Sri Lanka. The Australian team has the ability to dominate the match and emerge victorious, while Sri Lanka will need to play out of their skins to challenge the Australians. Considering the team combination, Australia is expected to win this match.

Cricket Australia (CA) have finalized their Test squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka which will commence on January 29. Steve Smith will take over the captaincy responsibilities and will lead the side in the absence of Pat Cummins who has opted for a paternity leave. Besides, he is also addressing an ankle issue that came to light during the course of the five-match Border Gavaskar Test series against India. Travis Head has been named as Smith's deputy. 

There is no mention of Australian speedster Josh Hazlewood and bowling all-rounder Mitch Marsh, both of whom were ruled out mid-way through the Border Gavaskar Test series. As the Sri Lankan pitches are predominantly expected to favor spin, Australia have revamped their spin arsenal for all the obvious reasons. Cooper Connolly, Matt Kuhnemann, Nathan Lyon, and Todd Murphy are the four frontline spinners who have been drafted into the squad. 

Beau Webster and Sam Konstas were the two debutants for Australia in the recently concluded BGT series. They have been included in the squad along with the opener Nathan McSweeney who looked a little out of form in that series. Alex Carey will primarily take on the wicket-keeping responsibilities but will also have the services of Josh Inglis as a backup wicketkeeper option.

See also: Young swashbuckling Australian opener in danger of missing out on Sri Lankan tour

A look at the Australian Test Squad 

Steve Smith (c), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Travis Head (vc), Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Nathan McSweeney, Todd Murphy, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster