Sri Lanka emerged victorious against Australia by 49 runs in the first One Day International (ODI), which was held as a day match at the R. Premadasa Cricket Stadium in Colombo.
Winning the toss, Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka opted to bat first. Pathum Nissanka and Avishka Fernando opened the innings for Sri Lanka. However, Australia’s bowlers dominated early, dismissing Sri Lanka’s top five wickets for just 55 runs. Asalanka then built a crucial 67-run partnership for the sixth wicket with Dunith Wellalage, who contributed 30 runs before being dismissed. Sri Lanka lost eight wickets for 135 runs, struggling to build a solid total.
Leading from the front, Asalanka played a captain’s knock, scoring his fourth ODI century. He found valuable support from pace bowler Eshan Malinga. Asalanka was eventually dismissed as the ninth wicket after a remarkable 127-run innings, which included 14 fours and five sixes.
Sri Lanka was bowled out for 214 runs in 46 overs. For Australia, Sean Abbott claimed three wickets, while Spencer Johnson, Aaron Hardie, and Nathan Ellis picked up two wickets each.
Chasing a target of 215, Australia began their innings with Matthew Short and Jake Fraser. However, Sri Lankan pacer Asitha Fernando made an immediate impact, dismissing both openers with just seven runs on the board. Sri Lanka’s bowlers continued to dominate, reducing Australia to 31/4 early in the innings.
The Australian batters struggled to build partnerships as Sri Lanka maintained tight bowling control. Eventually, Australia was bowled out for 165 runs in 33.5 overs. Alex Carey was the top scorer with 41 runs.
Sri Lankan spinner Maheesh Theekshana delivered a match-winning performance, taking four wickets for 40 runs. Asitha Fernando and Dunith Wellalage took two wickets each.
Charith Asalanka was named Player of the Match for his outstanding century.
The second ODI between Sri Lanka and Australia is scheduled for next Friday.
