Oman fields first against co-host Sri Lanka at the T20 World Cup

PALLEKELE, Sri Lanka — Oman won the toss and elected to field first against co-host Sri Lanka in their Group B T20 World Cup clash, a decision that quickly backfired as the home side piled up a tournament-best 225-5.

Captain Dasun Shanaka shattered his own national record for the fastest Twenty20 half-century, reaching the milestone in just 19 balls before departing the next delivery. Shanaka’s assault included five sixes, bettering the 20-ball fifty he had posted against India in 2023.

Kusal Mendis (61) and Pavan Rathnayake (60) set the platform with a 94-run third-wicket stand off 52 balls after Sri Lanka lost Pathum Nissanka and Kamil Mishra inside the power play.

In reply, Oman managed only 120-9, succumbing to a 105-run defeat. Off-spinner Maheesh Theekshana led a five-pronged bowling effort with 2-11 from his four overs.

Forty-three-year-old Mohammad Nadeem provided lone resistance for Oman, becoming the oldest man to score a T20 World Cup half-century with an unbeaten 53 from 56 balls. Wasim Ali was the only other Oman batter to reach double figures, scoring 27.

The result leaves Sri Lanka with two wins from two games, though they are yet to face Group B heavyweights Australia and Zimbabwe.