Pathum Nissanka said clarity in planning and backing their understanding of conditions helped Sri Lanka secure a crucial win and qualify for the Super 8 stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup on Sunday.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Nissanka said Sri Lanka’s 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 anchored by a commanding partnership between Nissanka and Kusal Mendis. Nissanka said the pair had a clear approach 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 batting normally through the first phase.

“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,” Nissanka added.

The right-hander became the first player to score a century in this tournament. He said reaching three figures on the global stage had been a personal target.

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

Nissanka also made amends in the field after earlier spilling a chance off Glenn Maxwell. He later produced 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.

On Australia’s total, Nissanka believed they fell short.

“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 said.

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

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

Nissanka praised the support at Pallekele, saying the crowd played a key role in lifting the team’s energy.

“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 India’s progression, means both host nations have advanced to the Super 8 stage of the tournament. (Newswire)

The post Pathum Nissanka hails team plan after century powers Sri Lanka into Super 8 appeared first on Newswire.