Sri Lanka delivered a commanding performance, defeating Australia by 174 runs in their final one-day international ahead of the Champions Trophy opener against England.
The world champions, plagued by injuries, were dismissed for just 107 while chasing a target of 281 in Colombo. This resulted in a disappointing 2-0 series loss to a team that failed to qualify for the tournament held in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates.
Following the dismissals of Travis Head, Matt Short, and Jake Fraser-McGurk by seamer Asitha Fernando within the first seven overs, Australia found themselves at 79-3. However, the situation deteriorated rapidly as they lost their last seven wickets for a mere 28 runs, all due to Sri Lanka’s spin attack on a sluggish, turning surface.
Left-arm spinner Dunith Wellalage sparked a dramatic collapse by dismissing Josh Inglis for 22, concluding the match with impressive figures of 4-35.
Aaron Hardie, an all-rounder, was dismissed at slip by leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga, managing only a four-ball duck in the subsequent over. Glenn Maxwell followed shortly after, bowled for a single run by a turning delivery from Wellalage just five balls later.
Hasaranga claimed the wicket of Australia captain Steve Smith, who was dismissed lbw for 29 runs, concluding his spell with impressive figures of 3-23.
A last-wicket alliance of 13 runs between Adam Zampa and Tanveer Sangha was crucial in helping Australia surpass the three-figure mark.
Australia faced its most significant defeat by runs against Sri Lanka, marking the fifth-heaviest loss to any opponent in the team’s history.
Kusal Mendis scored 101 runs off 115 balls, while Charith Asalanka remained unbeaten with 78 runs from 66 deliveries, contributing to Sri Lanka’s total of 281 for 4.
“We have been outplayed, but we utilised a lot of players and gained valuable experience,” remarked Smith, who is filling in as captain for the injured bowler Pat Cummins.
Sri Lanka delivered a commendable bowling display, while their batting left much to be desired.
Progress will continue unabated. Sri Lanka deserves recognition.
Australia’s preparations for the Champions Trophy have been significantly impacted by injuries affecting key players, including Pat Cummins, bowler Josh Hazlewood, and all-rounder Mitchell Marsh. Additionally, the team faces challenges with Marcus Stoinis’ retirement and Mitchell Starc’s decision to withdraw from the tournament.
Their opening match is set against England, who enter the contest following a 3-0 series defeat to India, scheduled for 22 February.
South Africa and Afghanistan have joined the ranks of the four-team group.
