Pathum Nissanka produced what could well be the catch of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 during Sri Lanka’s clash against Australia in Pallekele, stunning both fans and opponents alike. The moment came in the 17th over when Glenn Maxwell attempted one of his trademark switch hits off Dushan Hemantha, looking to accelerate in the death overs.
Glenn Maxwell had just begun to find his rhythm and appeared set for a late flourish. He connected sweetly, seemingly clearing the infield with ease. But Pathum Nissanka had other ideas. Timing his leap to perfection, the Sri Lankan fielder sprinted back and plucked the ball over his head with a full-stretch dive — a breathtaking effort that instantly shifted momentum. Maxwell’s cameo ended at 22 off 15 balls, and Australia’s charge was halted at a crucial juncture.
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The stunning grab triggered a mini-collapse. Australia, who looked poised for a 200-plus total after strong half-centuries from Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head, eventually finished on 181. The middle and lower order failed to capitalise on the platform, losing wickets at regular intervals in the final overs.
𝐍𝐨 𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝 😌
Pathum Nissanka defies gravity with an absolute screamer to dismiss Maxwell! 🤯
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For Pathum Nissanka, it was a moment of redemption. He had earlier put down a chance, and even Josh Inglis survived an early scare before scoring 27 off 22 deliveries. But when it mattered most, Nissanka rose to the occasion.
In high-pressure ICC tournaments, such fielding brilliance often defines matches — and this effort could prove pivotal in Sri Lanka’s campaign.
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Sri Lanka (Playing XI): Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis(w), Pavan Rathnayake, Dasun Shanaka(c), Kamindu Mendis, Dushan Hemantha, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana
Australia (Playing XI): Mitchell Marsh(c), Travis Head, Cameron Green, Tim David, Josh Inglis(w), Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Cooper Connolly, Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa
