Kusal Mendis' brilliant century and Dunith Wellalage’s four-wicket haul powered Sri Lanka to a resounding 174-run victory over Australia in the first ODI here on Friday.
Opting to bat first, Sri Lanka posted a formidable total of 281 for four in 50 overs, powered by an excellent century from Mendis (101 off 115, 11x4s) and a steady half-century from skipper Charith Asalanka (51 off 70).
In reply, Australia faltered under pressure as Asitha Fernando (3/23) ripped through the top order before the Sri Lankan spinners tightened the noose to bowl the visitors out for a paltry 107 in 24.2 overs. Wellalage was the chief destroyer with figures of 4/29, while Wanindu Hasaranga chipped in with three wickets.
Head coach Sanath Jayasuriya was seen celebrating calmly from the dugout, as his side delivered yet another clinical performance under the leadership of Asalanka.
Sri Lanka lost Pathum Nissanka (6) early, but Mendis and Madushka steadied the innings with a crucial stand. While the Australian bowlers kept things tight with the new ball, the Sri Lankan duo showed patience before accelerating in the middle overs. Mendis, in sublime touch, dominated proceedings and notched up his century.
He found an able ally in Asalanka, who played a captain's knock, bringing up his fifty with fluent stroke play. Late fireworks from Janith Liyanage, who scored a brisk 32 off 21 with three boundaries and two sixes, propelled Sri Lanka to an above-par total, aided by sloppy fielding from the visitors.
Chasing 282, Australia needed a solid start, but Fernando had other plans. The pacer wreaked havoc in the powerplay, dismissing three top-order batsmen and leaving the tourists in dire straits.
Skipper Steve Smith attempted to rebuild but kept losing partners as Sri Lanka's spin duo of Hasaranga and Wellalage dismantled the middle and lower order. Wellalage claimed four wickets, ensuring Australia were bundled out for just 107, handing Sri Lanka a commanding win.
With the Champions Trophy on the horizon, the Australians have much to ponder, while Sri Lanka will take great confidence from yet another dominant outing.(UNI)
