Sri Lanka secured a 49-run victory against Australia in the first One Day International (ODI) at R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo today (12th). With this win, Sri Lanka leads the two-match series 1-0.
Chasing a modest target of 215 runs, the Australian batting lineup struggled and was bowled out for 165 runs in 33.5 overs.
- Alex Carey top-scored with 41 runs, while Aaron Hardie contributed 32 runs.
- Sri Lanka’s Asitha Fernando set the tone early, removing both openers when Australia was at just 7 runs.
- The bowling attack was led by Maheesh Theekshana, who claimed 4 wickets for 40 runs.
- Dunith Wellalage chipped in with 2 wickets for 33 runs, while Wanindu Hasaranga and Charith Asalanka took a wicket each.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Sri Lanka was bowled out for 214 runs in 46 overs.
- The hosts had a shaky start, losing 5 wickets for just 55 runs.
- The collapse continued, with the team at 135/8, before captain Charith Asalanka stepped up.
- Asalanka played a heroic knock of 127 runs, single-handedly steering Sri Lanka to a defendable total.
This victory gives Sri Lanka an edge in the series, setting up an exciting final ODI.