AUS vs SL Dream11 Prediction today: Expert fantasy tips, pitch report, and probable XI for Match 30 of T20 World Cup 2026 at Pallekele Stadium, Kandy.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 reaches a fever pitch as the 2021 champions, Australia, face a must-win scenario against the co-hosts, Sri Lanka, at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. After a shocking 23-run defeat to Zimbabwe, the Aussies are fighting for survival in Group B. Conversely, Sri Lanka is flying high with two dominant wins and will look to secure their Super 8 spot in front of a roaring home crowd. This “clash of the titans” isn’t just about points; it’s about momentum in a wide-open World Cup.
Data Suite: Match Information
| Category | Details |
| Match | Australia (AUS) vs Sri Lanka (SL), Match 30, Group B |
| Series | ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 |
| Venue | Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Kandy |
| Date & Time | Monday, February 16, 2026 |
| Broadcast | JioStar Network, Star Sports, and JioHotstar |
Pitch & Weather Report
Pitch Report
The Pallekele surface is known as the highest-scoring ground in Sri Lanka.
- Nature: A balanced surface with fresh grass that offers significant seam movement early on.
- Spin vs Pace: Pacers have a slight edge (57.5% wickets), but as the shine disappears, spinners like Maheesh Theekshana become lethal.
- Fantasy Impact: Batters can capitalize on the Powerplay impact before the surface slows down in the middle overs. Scoreboard pressure is vital, as chasing teams often struggle under lights.
Weather Summary
Current conditions in Pallekele are cloudy with a temperature of 22°C. For the match timeframe, expect cloudy skies with a high of 24°C and a low of 18°C. While daytime rain chances are low at 10%, there is a 35% chance of rain at night, which could bring the DLS method into play.
Head-to-Head (H2H) & Ground Stats
| Stat | Record |
| Total T20Is Played | 26 |
| Australia Won | 16 |
| Sri Lanka Won | 10 |
| Avg 1st Innings Score | 171 |
| Highest Score at Venue | 263/3 (AUS vs SL) |
Probable Playing XI
Australia (AUS):
Travis Head (c), Josh Inglis (wk), Cameron Green, Tim David, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Renshaw, Cooper Connolly, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Matthew Kuhnemann.
(Note: Mitchell Marsh is under an injury cloud; Steve Smith may be added to the squad as a replacement.)
Sri Lanka (SL):
Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka (c), Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana.
Dream11 Prediction Section
Small League (Safe Picks)
- Top Captain: Maheesh Theekshana. He has been in sensational form, taking 5 wickets in the last two games with an elite economy rate.
- Top Vice-Captain: Kusal Mendis. With consecutive half-centuries, he is the most reliable batter in these conditions.
Grand League (Risky Picks)
- Marcus Stoinis: Cleared to play despite a hand injury; he is a dual-threat death-over specialist.
- Matheesha Pathirana: His “slingy” action and variations make him a high-ceiling option for wickets at the death.
Key Player Analysis
- Maheesh Theekshana (Bowler): The “Mystery” man. His ability to bowl in the powerplay and at the death with control makes him a fantasy goldmine.
- Travis Head (Batter): Due for a big one. He averages nearly 30 against SL with a strike rate of 163.
- Dasun Shanaka (All-rounder): Loves playing Australia. His last match at this venue against them yielded a match-winning 54* off 25 balls.
Match Prediction
Win Probability: AUS 35% | SL 65%
Sri Lanka’s home advantage and superior current form make them favorites. However, never count out an Australian side with their backs against the wall.
Final Dream11 Team (Balanced)
- WK: Kusal Mendis (VC), Josh Inglis
- Batters: Pathum Nissanka, Travis Head, Tim David
- All-rounders: Marcus Stoinis, Kamindu Mendis
- Bowlers: Maheesh Theekshana (C), Adam Zampa, Matheesha Pathirana, Nathan Ellis
FAQs
- Who will win AUS vs SL? Sri Lanka is favored due to home conditions and Australia’s recent loss to Zimbabwe.
- What is a par score in Pallekele? Around 175 is considered a competitive total batting first.
- Is Mitchell Marsh playing today? He remains a doubt due to injury; Travis Head led the side in the last match.
- How is the pitch for bowlers? Pacers get swing early, but spinners dominate the middle phase as the surface slows down.
- Is there a rain threat? Yes, a 35% chance of rain during the night might affect the second innings.
- Where can I follow for the final toss? Join the Battingfirst WhatsApp Channel for live updates.
Expert’s Verdict: Success at Pallekele depends on adapting to the slowing surface. I recommend picking at least three spinners in your squad to cover the middle-over impact.
