Australia’s ODI squad faced a tough setback in their final preparation for the Champions Trophy, as they were bowled out for just 107 runs in a decisive loss against Sri Lanka. This defeat, which occurred on February 14 at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, marked a significant low point for the Australian team, who lost the two-match series 0-2.
In fact, this was Australia’s biggest defeat in One Day Internationals (ODIs) against Sri Lanka, losing by 174 runs. It was also a record low for the Australians in ODIs played in Asia, surpassing their previous low of 139, which they scored against India in 1985. The team, led by Steve Smith, struggled dramatically against the Sri Lankan spinners, even after having a successful Test series earlier.
With injuries and player availability issues, Australia faced a fully-equipped Sri Lankan team, looking to maximize their performance ahead of the Champions Trophy. Travis Head and Glenn Maxwell returned to the lineup, but it did little to change their fortunes. Sri Lankan spinners Dunith Wellalage and Wanindu Hasaranga, along with pacer Asitha Fernando, dismantled the Australian batting order with ease.
Only two Australian players, Steve Smith with 29 runs and Josh Inglis with 22, managed to score over 20. Travis Head attempted to ignite the innings but was dismissed early for 18 runs. Australia quickly found themselves in trouble, struggling to 33 for 3, as the top order could not handle Asitha’s precise bowling.
A brief partnership between Smith and Inglis added 46 runs for the fourth wicket, but Wellalage’s brilliance broke this stand before the middle order collapsed, with the last seven wickets falling for a mere 28 runs. Wellalage finished with a remarkable four-wicket haul, leading the Sri Lankan bowling efforts.
Australia was unable to withstand even 25 overs in their innings, with lower-order batsmen like Aaron Hardie, Glenn Maxwell, and Sean Abbott contributing insignificant scores.
In the first match of the series, Australia managed only 165 runs in response to Sri Lanka’s total of 214, which was bolstered by Charith Asalanka’s impressive century.
On the Sri Lankan side, Kusal Mendis shone brightly on the day of the match, scoring 101 runs off 115 balls, showcasing his ability to handle spin bowling during challenging conditions. Along with Mendis, Nishan Madushanka scored 51 runs, and captain Charith Asalanka, fresh off his century in the first match, added a solid 78 runs from 66 balls.
With this disappointing series defeat, Australia certainly faces challenges ahead, especially as they prepare for their upcoming matches in Pakistan without some of their key players like Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins. The team is set to face arch-rivals England in Lahore on February 22, where they’ll be keen to bounce back and regain their form.
