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T20 World Cup: Sri Lanka'captain Dasun Shanaka hailed his team's victory over Australia as "one of the best performances in recent past", thanks to Pathum Nissanka's explosive 52-ball century that propelled them to an eight-wicket win and secured their spot in the Super Eights.
Nissanka's aggressive batting, featuring 10 fours and five sixes, complemented Kusal Mendis' 51, making the chase of 182 look effortless.
"One of the best performances in recent past. Happy about the way first innings went," Shanaka said at the presentation ceremony.
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Sri Lanka chased down Australia's 182-run target with ease, thanks to Nissanka's unbeaten century and Kusal Mendis' 51 off 38 balls. Nissanka's masterful knock was decorated with 10 fours and five sixes.
Matheesha Pathirana suffered a suspected hamstring injury during their match against Australia, forcing him to go off the field.
"We were still very positive after losing Pathirana. Had the confidence. Knew about the wicket as well. Each and everyone showed high body language. Everybody wanted to contribute somehow. Missing Hasaranga and now Pathirana is a big miss. Need to take the good things from here," Shanaka said.
Speaking about Nissanka's majestic knock, the skipper said, "We knew it was due. I know there were a lot of chats when we opted to bowl. Our group was confident. Boundaries are comparatively short."
"Wonderful to qualify for Super Eights. After many years making it to the next round. Hopefully we'll make it to the semis as well. Must thank the crowd," he added.