Pathum Nissanka Credits Clear Planning as Sri Lanka national cricket team Seal Super 8 Spot

Pathum Nissanka said clarity in planning and a strong understanding of local conditions were key factors behind Sri Lanka’s crucial victory and qualification for the Super 8 stage of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup on Sunday.

Speaking after the match, Nissanka explained that the decision to field first was based on prior experience at the venue.

“We have played here previously and we know the wicket quite well. We thought it was a good pitch and the decision to field first was correct,” he said.

Australia posted 180, but Sri Lanka’s chase was built on a commanding partnership between Nissanka and Kusal Mendis. Nissanka revealed the pair had a clear strategy during the powerplay.

“After the first dismissal, Kusal and I had a plan to finish the powerplay well. He had a very good start, so it was easier for me to continue my innings,” he said.

With dew expected later in the evening, Sri Lanka focused on maintaining a steady approach in the first half of the innings.

“We knew there would be dew. We planned to bat normally for about 12 overs and continue like that. We didn’t have to push too much because we were getting enough runs,” he added.

The right-hander became the first centurion of this year’s tournament and said reaching three figures on the global stage had been a personal ambition.

“I had a huge target to score a hundred in a World Cup. I’m very happy that I could achieve that today,” Nissanka said.

He also made amends in the field after dropping an earlier chance off Glenn Maxwell, later producing a sharp catch to dismiss the Australian batter.

“After losing that catch, I felt really worried. It was a good wicket and I thought I should do something for the team. I knew he might play the reverse sweep, so I was ready. I was lucky enough to get that catch,” he said.

Reflecting on Australia’s total, Nissanka believed they fell short of a competitive score.

“At one stage we thought they could go beyond 220. I think they were about 20 to 30 runs short. Our plan was to keep them below 200,” he explained.

He also clarified that his ‘shush’ celebration after reaching his century was not aimed at anyone.

“That’s something I usually do. It’s not targeting anyone,” he said.

Nissanka reserved special praise for the supporters at Pallekele, crediting the crowd for energising the team.

“When a crowd like this comes and supports us, we get super energy. I thank everyone who came today and I request them to come for every match,” he said.

Sri Lanka’s qualification, along with the progression of India national cricket team, means both host nations have advanced to the Super 8 stage of the tournament.