Shanaka powers Sri Lanka to 225 against Oman in Pallekele

PALLEKELE: Sri Lanka delivered a dominant batting display to defeat Oman by 105 runs in their T20 World Cup clash at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Thursday.
Powered by a late onslaught from captain Dasun Shanaka, the hosts posted 225/5 — their second-highest total in T20 World Cup history and the highest of the ongoing tournament.
After an early breakthrough by Jay Odedra, who dismissed Kamil Mishara, Sri Lanka rebuilt steadily through Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis before accelerating. The turning point came with a commanding 94-run third-wicket partnership between Kusal Mendis and Pavan Rathnayake.
Rathnayake was explosive, smashing 60 off just 28 balls, including eight fours and a six, while Kusal Mendis anchored the innings with a composed 61 off 45 deliveries.
The real damage, however, came in the death overs. Shanaka unleashed a breathtaking assault, hammering a 19-ball half-century — the fastest ever by a Sri Lankan in T20 Internationals. His whirlwind knock, featuring five sixes and two fours, propelled Sri Lanka to a daunting total after they plundered 65 runs in the final four overs.
Jiten Ramanandi was Oman’s most successful bowler with 2/41, but the visitors struggled to contain the late surge.
Chasing 226, Oman’s innings never gathered momentum. Captain Jatinder Singh fell in the opening over to Dushmantha Chameera, and wickets continued to tumble at regular intervals as the required rate soared beyond reach.
Wasim Ali provided brief resistance with 27, while veteran Mohammad Nadeem fought valiantly to remain unbeaten on 53 from 56 balls, registering his third T20I half-century. However, Oman were restricted to 120/9, falling well short of the target.
Chameera (2/19) and Maheesh Theekshana (2/11) led a disciplined Sri Lankan bowling effort that ensured there was no way back for Oman.
Oman now turn their focus to their upcoming clash against Ireland on Saturday before concluding their group stage campaign against Australia at this venue on February 20. While qualification may be out of reach, Jatinder Singh’s side will look to salvage pride and positives as they continue their search for a breakthrough victory on the global stage.
Brief scores: SrI Lanka 225/5 (Kusal Mendis 61, Pavan Rathnayake 60, Dasun Shanaka 50; Jiten Ramanandi 2/41) beat Oman 120/9 (Mohammad Nadeem 53*, Wasim Ali 27; Dushmantha Chameera 2/19, Maheesh Theekshana 2/11).