Sri Lanka clinched a 2-0 series victory over Australia with a commanding 174-run win in the second and final ODI at R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo.
Winning the toss, Sri Lanka opted to bat first and posted a strong total of 281/4.
Pathum Nissanka fell early for 15, but Kusal Mendis and debutant Nishan Madushka built a crucial 98-run stand for the second wicket.
Mendis showcased his class with a brilliant 101 off 115 balls, while captain Charith Asalanka remained unbeaten on 78 off 66 balls. Janith Liyanage also contributed with a quickfire 32 off 21 balls.
For Australia, Ben Dwarshuis, Aaron Hardie, Sean Abbott, and Adam Zampa picked up one wicket each.
Chasing 282, Australia struggled from the start, losing their first three wickets for just 33 runs, courtesy of Asitha Fernando’s fiery spell.
Though Steve Smith and Josh Inglis tried to stabilize with a 46-run partnership, Sri Lanka’s spin attack dismantled the innings completely.
Dunith Wellalage was the standout bowler, taking 4 wickets for 35 runs. Wanindu Hasaranga and Asitha Fernando bagged three wickets each, as Australia collapsed to just 107 runs in 24.2 overs. This marked Australia’s lowest ODI total in Asia.
Kusal Mendis was named Player of the Match, while Charith Asalanka earned the Player of the Series award.
With this victory, Sri Lanka avenged their 2-0 loss in the Test series, winning the ODI series by the same margin.
