The second ODI between Sri Lanka and Australia at?? the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, will be remembered for one moment?? of brilliance that turned the game on its head.

Glenn Maxwell, Australia’s explosive all-rounder, fell victim to a sensational delivery by Sri Lanka’s young spinner, Dunith Wellalage, as the visitors crumbled to a humiliating 174-run defeat. The match not only highlighted Sri Lanka’s dominance but also showcased the emergence of a new spin sensation in Wellalage.

Dunith Wellalage’s peach of a delivery to shatter Glenn Maxwell’s stumps

The dismissal of Maxwell was the defining moment of the match. On the fifth ball of the 17th over, ??Wellalage bowled a full delivery that seemed innocuous at first glance. Maxwell, known for his aggressive batting, s?tepped forward to defend, but the ball had other plans. It spun sharply away from the right-hander, beating his outside edge and crashing into the off-stump. Maxwell could only stare in disbelief as he walked back to the pavilion for just one run off three balls.

This wicket left Australia reeling at 83-6, effectively ending any hopes of a successful chase. Maxwell’s dismissal was a testament to Wellalage’s skill and control, as the young spinner outfoxed one of the most dangerous batters in world cricket.

Here’s the video:

WHAT A BALL!

Wellalage picks up his second and Maxwell is on his way #SLvAUS pic.twitter.com/p0XgIAjz1J

— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) February 14, 2025

Also READ: SL vs AUS: S??ri Lanka crush Australia in 2nd ODI to clinch series

Kusal Mendis and Charith Asalanka: The architects of Sri Lanka’s victory

Earlier in the day, Sri Lanka’s batting laid the foundation for their comprehensive victory. After losing Pathum Nissanka early, Kusal Mendis and Nishan Madushka stitched together a 98-run partnership for the second wicket. Madushka scored a ??composed 51 off 74 balls before falling to the Australian attack.

Mendis, however, continued his sublime form, reaching a well-deserved century. His 101 off 115 balls, including 11 boundaries, was a masterclass in controlled aggression. Skipper Charith Asalanka provided the p?erfect foil, remaining unbe??aten on 78 off 66 balls. Their 94-run partnership for the fourth wicket ensured Sri Lanka posted a competitive total of 281-4 in their 50 overs.

Australia’s batting collapse: A story of woe

Chasing a target of 282, Australia’s innings never gained momentum. The top order crumbled under pressure, with Matthew Short (2), Travis Head (18), and Jake Fraser-McGurk (9) falling early. Skipper Steve Smith and wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis tried to steady the s??hip with a 46-run partnership, but their efforts were in vain. Inglis was dismissed for 22, while Smith fell for 29.

The middle and lower order offered little resistance. Aaron Hardie (0) and Maxwel?l (1) were dismissed in quick succession, and the tailenders followed suit. Australia were bowled out for a paltry 107 in just 24.2 overs, marking one of their most disappointi??ng performances in recent years.

Sri Lanka’s spin trio: A nightmare for Australia

Wellalage was the star of the show, finishing with figures of 4-18 in his six overs. His ability to extract turn and bounce on a pitch that favoured the spinners was commendable. He was well-supported by Asitha Fernando and Wanindu Hasaranga, who picked up three wickets each. The trio combined to dismantle Australia’s batting lineup, showcasing Sri Lanka’s depth in spin bowling.

Sri Lanka’s dominant performance in the second ODI sealed a 2-0 series victory, marking a significant achievement for the team. The emergence of Wellalage as a match-winner and the consistent performances of Mendis and Asalanka bode well for the future of Sri Lankan cricket.

For Australia, the series was a wake-up call. Their inability to handle spin and the lack of partnerships in the middle order exposed glaring weaknesses that need to be addressed before their next assignment which is ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Also WATCH: Pathum Nissanka ??loses his wicket to a rash shot against Aaron Hardie

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Sri Lanka delivered a commanding performance in the second ODI against Australia, securing a thumping 174-run victory at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The hosts dominated with both bat and ball, registering a clean sweep in the?? two-match series.

Kusal Mendis stars as Sri Lanka posts a competitive total

Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Sri Lanka put up a formidable total of 281/4 in their allotted 50 overs. A brilliant century from Kusal Mendis (101 off?? 115 balls), coupled with a blistering knock from Charith Asalanka (78 off 66), set the foundation for the hosts�?imposing tot?al. Nishan Madushka also played a crucial role, scoring a steady 51 off 70 balls.

Australia’s bowling attack struggled to contain the Sri Lankan batters. Ben Dwarshuis (1/47), Sean Abbott (1/41), Adam Zampa (1/47) and Aaron Hardie (1/60) managed to pick up a wicket each, but their efforts were not enough to slow down Sri Lanka’s scoring rate.

Australian batting collapse hands Sri Lanka a massive win

Chasing a challenging target of 282, Australia never found their rhythm and collapsed to a dismal 107 all out in just 24.2 overs. Asitha Fernando (3/23) and Wanindu Hasaranga (3/23) ripped through the Australian top order, while Dunith W??ellalage was the pick of the bowlers, taking 4/35 in 7.2 overs.

Australia’s batting lineup failed to show resilience, with only Steve Smith (29 off 34) and Josh Inglis (22 off 27) offering some resistance. The rest of the batting order fell apart under pressure, with Glenn Maxwell (1), Aaron Hardie (0) and Matthew Short (2) failing to contribute.

An emphatic win for Sri Lanka to seal the series

Scorecard: //t.co/jJFctFHZIz#cricket #SLvAUS #ODI pic.twitter.com/6cQRYsvhZW

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 14, 2025

Also WATCH: Pathum Nissanka loses his wicket to a rash shot against Aaron Hardie?? in SL vs AUS 2nd ODI

Sri Lanka’s bowlers were relentless, exploiting the conditions to perfection. Wellalage’s spell proved decisive, as he dismantled the middle order, while Hasaranga and Fernando ensured there was no recovery for the visitors.

With this emphatic win, Sri Lanka sealed the seri?es comfortably. The first ODI saw Sri Lanka securing a 49-run victory, and this second ??match further underlined their dominance.

Kusal Mendis, whose well-pace?d century anchored Sri Lanka’s innings, was named the Player of the Match for his outstanding batting display. His innings ensured the hosts posted a competitive total, which eventually proved too much for the Australian batters.

Kusal Mendis was adjudged Player of the Match for his brilliant batting display#cricket #ODI #SLvAUS #KusalMendis pic.twitter.com/9ywWbcpMuE

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 14, 2025

Also READ: Australia’s David Warner predicts the winner of Champions Trophy 2025

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Pathum Nissanka’s shaky start to the second and final ODI against Australia came to an abrupt end, as he was clean bowled by Aaron Hardie. The dismissal took place at the R. Pr??emadasa Stadium in Colombo on Friday, February 14.

Pathum Nissanka’s rash shot costs Sri Lanka early wicket 

Nissanka’s wicket fell on the third ball of the fifth over. Hardie delivered an angling length ball at 130kph from wide of the crease, which further jagged in slightly. Nissanka, seemingly premeditating a big shot to relieve the building pressure from dot balls, charged down the track to swing across the line. However, he was beaten on the inside edge, resulting in the ball crashing into his stumps. The right-handed batter had to make a long walk back to the pavilion for 6 after facing 20 balls.

Nissanka’s wicket was a crucial breakthrough for Australia, who are looking to bounce back after losing the first ODI of the two-match series.

Here’s the video:

First wicket to Aaron Hardie! #SLvAUS pic.twitter.com/C0qMkHJzi7

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) February 14, 2025

In the first game, Sri Lankan skipper Charith Asalanka’s century led the hosts to a 49-run victory. Australia’s batting performance left a lot to be desired, and they are eager for a turnaround ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan.

Sri Lanka, already one up in the serie??s, aims to seal a series sweep. Their top orde?r, including Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis, will be aiming to improve their footwork against the Australian pacers.

Also READ: Twitter reactions – Sri Lanka triumphs over Australia in a low-scoring encounter at Colombo | 1st ODI

SL vs AUS: Playing XI of both teams

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka (??c), Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Eshan Malinga, Asitha Fernando

Australia: Matthew Short, Travis Head, Jake Fraser-McGurk?, Steven Smith (c), Josh Inglis (wk), Aaron Hardie, Glenn Maxwell, Sean Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis, Ada?m Zampa, Tanveer Sangha

Also READ: Australia’s Michael Clarke picks his favourite team to win Champions Trophy 2025

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Sri Lanka and Australia will face off once again at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. With an emphatic win over Australia, the home side has managed to garner a 1-0 lead win in the 2-match ODI series. Sri Lanka will?? aim to outperform the visitors once again and white-wash the visitors to redeem their losing momentum after their humiliating loss in the Test series??.

Match Details: SL vs AUS, 2nd ODI:

• Date and Time: February 14, 4:30 am GMT/ 10:00 am IST/ 10:00 am local
• Venue: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo.

R. Premadasa Stadium Pitch Report:

The R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo has long been a formidable challenge for visiting teams, renowned for its slow and turning tracks that heavily favor spinners. As the match progresses, the pitch tends to deteriorate, making stroke play increasingly difficult, especially in the latter half of the game. Spinners thrive on the sharp turn and grip offered by the surface, often dictating the game’s tempo. Given these conditions, teams batting first have a significant advantage, as setting a strong total becomes crucial before the pitch becomes more unpredictable under lights. Captains winning the toss are likely to opt for batting first, capitalizing on the relatively better batting conditions early on while avoiding the challeng?es of chasing under the floodlights in Colombo.

SL vs AUS Dream11 Prediction Picks:

• Wicketkeepers: Alex Carey, Kusal Mendis
• Batters: Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Pathum Nissanka
• All-rounders: Wanindu Hasaranga, Charith Asalanka, Aaron Hardie
• Bowlers: Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando, Nathan Ellis

SL vs AUS Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain:

• Choice 1: Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Kusal Mendis (vc)
• Choice 2: Steve Smith (c), Alex Carey (vc)

Also Read: Australia’s Mi?chael Clarke picks his favourite team to win Champions Trophy 2025

SL vs AUS Dream11 Prediction Backups:

Kusal Mendis, Jake Fraser McGurk, Dunith Wella?lage, Adam Zampa

SL vs AUS Dream11 Team for today’s match (February 12, 4:30 am GMT):

Squads:

Sri Lanka: Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Me??ndis, Kamindu Mend??is, Janith Liyanage, Nishan Madushka, Nuwanidu Fernando, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Jeffrey Vandersay, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Mohamed Shiraz, Eshan Malinga

Australia: Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Spencer Johnson, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, ??Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matt Short, Steve Smith (c), Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa

Also Read: Twitter reactions: Sri Lanka triumphs over Australia in a low??-scoring encounter at Colombo | 1st ODI

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

While cricket is a sport loaded with excitement and unprecedented developments, it is not every day that an astonishing catch changes the course of the game on its head. Something of a similar sort happened during the opening ODI encounter between Sri Lanka and Australia when Asitha Fernando outmatched all odds to send Jake Fraser McGurk back to the pavilion??. The?? dismissal not only shocked the cricketing world but changed the entire Australian approach towards the run chase as the visitors saw defeat in sight for the first time during their current tour to Sri Lanka.

Asitha Fernando stunned Jake Fraser McGurk to mark the end of his innings

The incident occurred during the 3rd over of the Australian innings. The visitors were already suffering since opener Matthew Short was dismissed by Asitha in the very first over of the run-chase on a duck. McGurk and top-order batter Cooper Connolly were trying to bring their team back into the game, but fate had decided o??therwise for Australians this time around.

On the 4th delivery of Asitha’s over, a short-length ball came as a shock to McGurk, who had already committed himself on the front foot. The explosive Australian opener tried to adjust to the length of the ball but was too late in doing so as the ball took an edge from his bat while he was trying to close its face and went straight to Asitha who took a remarkable follow-through catch to dismiss McGurk.
The dismissal was consequential since it gave Australia another major setback and turned the tide of the match in Sri Lanka’s favor. The visitors were out of options they were not able ??to recover from the early breakthroughs throughout the run-chase.

Here’s the video 

Asitha strikes for a second time!

Now it's Fraser-McGurk who goes, offering a leading edge back to Asitha #SLvAUS pic.twitter.com/bIjusK0XRt

— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) February 12, 2025

Also Watch: ??Steve Smith’s lightning reflexes send Avishka Fernando packing in the 1st ODI

Sri Lanka’s determined bowling effort secured a win against Australia

In the game, Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to bat first. While at one point it appeared as if the horror show from the Test series continued for the home side a valiant 127-run knock from skipper Charith Asalanka in adverse situations saved the day f??or Sri Lanka with the bat and paved the way for the team to reach a competitive total of 214 runs in 46 overs.

In response, Australia appeared on the back foot ever since the beginning of their innings. Wickets kept falling at regular intervals for the visitors who could not cope in front of a determined and relentless attack from Sri Lanka’s bowling unit. Maheesh Theekshana was the star for the home side with the bowl as he clinched 4 wickets. Other bowlers like Dunith Wellalage and Fernando als??o fairly supported him by taking 2 wickets each.

For Australia, wicket-keeper Alex Carey and all-rounder Aaron Hardie did try to put up some resistance but failed to capitalize on the hard-built momentum. The visitors were bowled out ??on 165 runs ?in 33.5 overs, resulting in a win for Sri Lanka by 49 runs.

Also Watch: Steve ?Smith grabs a stunner at slips to dismis??s Janith Liyanage in the 1st ODI

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Sri Lanka defeated Australia by 49 runs in the first ODI at Colombo. Batting first, Sri Lanka posted 215, with Charith Asalanka scoring 127 and Dunith Wellalage contributing 30. Australia’s chase faltered despite Alex Carey‘s 41 as Maheesh Theekshana (4/40) dismantled the batting lineup. Adam Zampa fought with? a late 20, but Aust?ralia were bowled out for 165 in 33.5 overs. Sri Lanka took a 1-0 lead in the series with a dominant all-round performance.

Charith Asalanka’s masterclass lifts Sri Lanka to a competitive total

Sri Lanka, electing to bat first at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, found themselves in early trouble as Australia’s pace attack made early inroads. The hosts lost their first four wickets for just 31 runs, with Spencer Johnson and Aaron Hardie dismantling the top order. Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis all fell?? cheaply, failing to provide any stability at the top.

However, Asalanka, leading the team in this match, played a remarkable captain’s knock under immense pressure. His 127 off 126 deliveries was a blend of resilience, calculated aggression, and match awareness. Wit?h 14 fours and five sixes, Asalanka carried the Sri Lankan innings on his shoulders.

He found some support from Janith Liyanage and Wellalage, but the wickets kept tumbling at the other end. Wellalage chipped in with a handy 30 off 34 balls, adding a crucial 67-run partnership with Asalanka to steer Sri Lanka past the 120-run mark. Despite their efforts, Sri Lanka’s innings never truly gained full momentum, as regular breakthroughs from Australia’s seamers restricted them to 214 in 46 overs. Abbott was the most successful bowler for the visitors, claiming three wickets for 61 runs, while Nathan Ellis and Spencer Johnson picked up two wickets each. Hardie was the most economical of the bowlers, conceding just 13 runs in his six??-over spell while taking two wickets.

Also WATCH: Steve Smit?h’s?? lightning reflexes send Avishka Fernando packing in the 1st ODI

Australia crumbles under pressure as Sri Lankan spinners dominate

Chasing a modest target of 215, Australia got off to a disastrous start, losing both openers, Matthew Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk, within the first three overs. Asitha Fernando struck twice in quick succession, sending shockwaves through the Australian dressing room. Cooper Connolly, playing only his second ODI, struggled to get going before falling lbw to Maheesh Theekshana. At 18/3, Australia was in deep trouble, and the experienced Steve Smith needed to stabilize the innings. However, his stay was short-lived as he was bowled by Wellalage for 12,?? reducing the visitors to 31/4 inside 10 overs.

With the top order crumbling, wicketkeeper-batter Carey played a counterattacking innings, scoring 41 off 38 balls, including five boundaries and a six. Carey attempted to revive the chase in the company of Marnus Labuschagne, who made 15 off 27 balls. The duo stitched together a 50-run partnership, but just when Australia seemed to ??be regaining their footing, Sri Lanka struck back. Labuschagne was trapped lbw by Theekshana, and soon after, Carey fell to Asalanka’s part-time spin. At 85/6, Australia were staring at a heavy defeat.

Aaron Hardie and Sean Abbott tried to fight back with a few attacking strokes, adding 41 runs for the seventh wicket. Hardie’s 32 off 37 balls kept Australia’s hopes alive, but his dismissal to Wanindu Hasaranga marked the beginning of the end for the visitors. With tailenders Ellis, Zampa and Johnson left to chase a steep target, Sri Lanka wrapped up the innings quickly. Theekshana starred with the ball, claiming four wickets for 40 runs in 9.5 overs, while Wellalage and Asitha Fernando bagged two wickets each.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

Charith Asalanka. Th??at’s a hard fought 4th Odi cent??ury.

— Ian Raphael Bishop (@irbishi) February 12, 2025

A captain’s knock by Charith Asalanka with his back to the wall. His career best score too. Good support from Eshan Malinga as they added a record 79 run stand for the ninth wicket. Malinga’s contribution 1. He faced 26 balls and showed character. pic.twitter.com/FccnVjDrnP

— Rex Clementine (@RexClementine) February 12, 2025

Stepped up and roared like a lion! 🦁

Charith Asalanka | #SLvAUS | #WeAreADKR | #AbuDhabiKnightRiders pic.twitter.com/RBnc3hzXJ3

— Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (@ADKRiders) February 12, 2025

What a knock by the skipper ! #charithasalanka lot of fight and grit👏👏

— Angelo Mathews (@Angelo69Mathews) February 12, 2025

Br?illiant bowling performance from Sri Lan?ka ⚡�?a href="//twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" data-wpel-link="exclude">#Cricket #SLvAUS #SriLankaCricket pic.twitter.com/apPgeSRIAB

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 12, 2025

Fraser-Mcgurk doesn't belong at this level #SLvAUS

— Matt (@Mattys123) February 12, 2025

I have just seen one of the finest ODI hundreds, by Charith Asalanka! N?ever easy to carry a team from 30/3, to 214 almost single handedly! Well done to the sk??ipper!

— Roshan Abeysinghe (@RoshanCricket) February 12, 2025

🦁 ROAR, SRI LANKA! 🇱🇰 

What a comeback! Sri Lanka defends 214 in style, bowling out Australia for just 165! A dominant display of skill, passion, and resilience. 💪🏏 #SLvAUS #SriLankaCricket #LionsRoar pic.twitter.com/AsWk3Ax2Gr

— Sri Lanka Cricket 🇱🇰 (@OfficialSLC) February 12, 2025

A vocal Poya Day crowd in a pretty busy Premadasa Stadium & an incredible performance from the captain follows by a sensational display with the ball. Not much riding on this series but a happy day for Sri Lankan cricket. They needed it #SLvAus pic.twitter.com/10y40H3Hwf

— Bharat Sundaresan (@beastieboy07) February 12, 2025

Standing ovation as Asanka departs for 127!

Steve Smith and Alex Carey congratulate him for his brilliant knock, rescuing Sri Lanka from 31/4 to 135/8 and eventually 214 all out. pic.twitter.com/fUPZYWcUC5

— Azzam Ameen (@AzzamAmeen) February 12, 2025

Also WATCH: Steve Smith grabs a stunner at sl?ips to dismiss Janith Liyanage in the 1st ODI

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

Sri Lanka’s decision to win the toss and elect to bat first in the first ODI against Australia seemed like a confident move, but it quickly turned into a nightmare. The top order crumbled under the relentless pressure of Australia’s pace attack, leaving the hosts reeling at 31/4 within the first seven overs. With the likes of Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, and Kusal Mendis back in the pavilion, Sri Lanka’s innings looked destined for disaster. However, amidst the chaos, one man stood tall – Charith Asalanka.

Charith Asalanka plays a gritty captain’s knock

Asalanka’s innings was nothing short of heroic. Walking in at a precari?ous 31/4, the left-hander displayed immense grit and determination to steady the ship. While wickets co??ntinued to fall at the other end, Asalanka held his ground, playing a mix of cautious defence and calculated aggression. His ability to rotate the strike and find the boundaries at crucial moments kept Sri Lanka’s hopes alive.

The highlight of his innings came in the 42nd over when he dabbed a slower ball from Nathan Ellis behind point to bring up his century. The crowd erupted in applause as Asalanka raised his bat, acknowledging the cheers from the stands. His 127 off 126 balls, including 14 fours and 5 sixes, was a masterclass in resilience and adaptabi??lity.

Asalanka’s one-man show amidst the collapse

Asalanka’s knock was even more remarkable considering the lack of support from the other end. Apart from Dunith Wellalage’s brief cameo of 30, no other batter managed to cross the 20-run mark. The Sri Lankan innings was a tale of two halves – the early collapse and Asalanka’s defiant resistance. Despite his heroics, Sri Lanka was eventually bowled out for 214 in 46 overs, a total that seemed underwhelming given the conditions. However, Asalanka’s century ensured that the hosts had something to fight for, injecting a sense of pride into an otherwise disappointing batting performance.

Australia’s dominant bowling display

Australia’s bowlers deserve credit for their disciplined and aggressive approach. Spencer Johnson and Aaron Hardie struck early blows, reducing Sri Lanka to 6/2 within the first two overs. Ellis was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with figures of 2/23 in his nine overs, while Sean Abbott chipped in with three crucial wickets. The visitors�?fielding was equally impressive, with sharp catches and agile ground fielding adding to Sri Lanka’s woes. Matthew Short’s diving catch to dismiss Kamindu Mendis and Alex Carey’s safe hands behind the stumps w??ere standout moments in the field.

Also WATCH: Steve Smit?h grabs a stunner at slips to dismiss Janith Liyanage in the 1st ODI

Here’s how fans reacted:

Charith Asalanka ❤️pic.twitter.com/bT3YOWWEAW

— Sri Lanka Tweet 🇱🇰 (@SriLankaTweet) February 12, 2025

A Captain’s Knock! 💯🔥 Charith Asalanka leads from the front with a brilliant century! 🏏💪#CharithAsalanka #SLvsAUS pic.twitter.com/VnzOzdQusY

— Sri Lanka Cricket 🇱🇰 (@OfficialSLC) February 12, 2025

Charith Asalanka gets a pat from Alex Carey n a fist bum??p from Steve Smith, after his incredible 127 runs.

86 runs of Charith's runs came from sixes and boundaries.#SLvsAUS #Sri pic.twitter.com/PUfXmpK0pA

— Prasanna Rodrigo (@Prasanrod) February 12, 2025

After a string of low scores, Charith Asalanka brings up a fantastic fighting 💯 – his 4th in ODIs 👏 #SLvAUS pic.twitter.com/F5ku7myVHz

— ThePoppingCrease (@PoppingCreaseSA) February 12, 2025

Charith Asalanka of Sri Lanka celebrates after scoring a century. #SLvAusODI pic.twitter.com/7jELZFTuIv

— Robert Cianflone (@Sportsnapper71) February 12, 2025

SRILANKA 135 FO?R 8 TO 214 FOR 9 AGAINST AUSTRALIA 🤯

– All thanks to Charith Asalanka, his partner Eshan Malinga 1*(26)

Asalanka smashed 127 runs from 126 balls, A one man Army, one of the finest knocks in Sri Lankan history 🇱🇰 pic.twitter.com/lvJRNOt1RU

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 12, 2025

What a lone warrior inning , one of the be?st century for sure.

Bow down to Charith Asalanka 🫡 pic.twitter.com/CipiJLHxxo

— 𝐑 𝐈 𝐓 𝐈 𝐊  (@Dhoni_Tweetz) February 12, 2025

Charith Asalanka’s 127 in the 1st?? ODI against Australia today is one of the best innings you’ll ever see!

Sri Lanka was 135/8 and Asalanka was on 50 when the 9th man walked out to bat. With him he added another 79 runs to the total, of which 78 came off his bat. What a player! pic.twitter.com/xYOsDKVKtt

— Janaka Nimalachandra (@JNimalachandra) February 12, 2025

Well made Century for Charith Asalanka

-his 4th ODI Hundred
-He was on 50 when malinga joined him

What an innings!!!#SLvsAUSpic.twitter.com/cPlXckEWHY

— Rohit Baliyan (@rohit_balyan) February 12, 2025

Charith Asalanka has just played one of the best ODI innings of this decade..!! 🤯 pic.twitter.com/ul2j9U2G0y

— Nawaz 🇵🇰 (@Rnawaz31888) February 12, 2025

Also WATCH: Steve Smith’s lightning reflexes ??send Avishka Fernando ?packing in the 1st ODI

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Winning the toss and electing to bat first can often set the stage for a commanding performance, but for Sri Lanka in this ODI, it heralded a different story. After a shaky start, the pressure mounted, leading to a moment of brilliance from Steve Smith that epitomized Australia‘s dominance and sent shockwaves through the Sri Lankan batting lineup.

Steve Smith’s acrobatic act sends Janith Liyanage packing

The dismissal came in the 15th over, with Sri Lanka desperately trying to rebuild their innings. Sean Abbott, bowling a good length delivery wide of off-stump, tempted Janith Liyanage into a loose drive. The ball took a thick edge and flew low towards the slips. Smith, stationed at second slip, reacted in a flash. He bent low, almost parallel to the ground, and plucked the ball inches above the turf with his right hand. The umpires immediately wen??t upstairs to check if the catch was clean, but replays confirmed Smith’s s??afe hands. It was a textbook slip catch, showcasing his razor-sharp reflexes and impeccable technique.

Liyanage, who had struggled to 11 of??f 29 balls, trudged back to the pavilion, leaving Sri Lanka in deeper trouble at 55/5. Smith’s catch not only ended a promising partnership but also reinforced his reputation as one of the s??afest slip fielders in the game.

Here’s the video:

Half the Sri Lankan side: �?/p>

Smith holds on to a low one to give Abbott his first #SLvAUS pic.twitter.com/ap5oAehBMY

— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) February 12, 2025

Also WATCH: Steve Smith’s lightning reflexes send Avishka? Fernando ??packing in the 1st ODI

Sri Lanka’s struggles continue after the powerplay

At the time of writing, Sri Lanka’s innings was in shambles. After 18 overs, they were 86/5, with Charith Asalanka (23*) and Dunith Wellalage (17*) trying to steady the ship. The hosts had lost their top five batters inside the first 15 overs, with Spencer Johnson and Aaron Hardie doing the early damage. Johnson picked up two wickets, including that of opener Pathum Nissanka, while Hardie accounted for Avishka Fernando and Kusal Mendis.

The Australian bowlers were relentless, exploiting the conditions perfectly. Nathan Ellis, in particular, was economical, conceding ?just 8 runs in his 4 overs. Abbott, despite being slightly expensive, provided the c??rucial breakthrough with Liyanage’s wicket, thanks to Smith’s heroics.

Sri Lanka’s innings has be?en a story of missed opportunities and poor shot selection. The powerplay overs were particularly disastrous, with the team managing just 39 runs while losing four wickets. By the 12th over, they had crawled to 50 runs, but the fall of Li?yanage in the 15th over further dented their hopes of posting a competitive total.

Australia in control of the game

With Sri Lanka struggling at 86/5 aft??er 18 overs, Australia are firmly in control of the match. The visitors�?bowlers have been clinical, and their fielding, led by Smith’s stunning catch, has been top-notch. Unless Asalanka and Wellalage can stage a remarkable recovery, Sri Lanka’s decision to bat first could haunt them as the match progresses.

St??eve Smith’s catch was not just a moment of individual brilliance but also a testa??ment to Australia’s dominance in the field. As the game unfolds, Sri Lanka will need a miracle to turn the tide in their favour.

Also READ: SL ??vs AUS 2025, ODI Series: Broadcast, Live Streaming details �?When and where to watch in India, Australia, Sri Lanka, Pakistan &??; other countries

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Sri Lanka and Australia are set to lock horns in the first ODI at R. Premadasa Stadium, marking the start of a two-match series. While the Islanders aim to bounce back from their recent struggles, Australia will treat the series as a key preparation phase for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025.

The two teams recently faced off in a two-match Test series, where Australia clinched a 2-0 clean sweep. The visitors will now look to carry their winning momentum into the ODIs. For Sri Lanka, the ODI series presents a crucial chance to rebuild and regai??n confidence after their disappointing Test series loss.

Despite? missing out on the Champions Tr??ophy, Sri Lanka will look to make a strong impression, especially at home, and challenge an in-form Australian unit. With a spin-friendly pitch at R. Premadasa Stadium, the Islanders might rely on their spinners to trouble the Aussie batters.

SL vs AUS 2025 ODI Series: Fixtures

• 1st ODI: February 12 at R.Premadasa Stadium, Colombo; 10:00 am local/ 10:00 am IST/ 4:30 am GMT
• 2nd ODI: February 14 at R.Premadasa Stadium, Colombo; 10:00 am local/ 10:00 am IST/ 4:30 am GMT

Squads:

Australia: Matthew Short, Travis Head, Steven Smith (c), Josh Inglis (wk), Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Cooper Connolly, Nathan Ellis, Adam ??Zampa, Tanveer Sangha, Spencer Johnson, Mitchell Starc, Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Aaron Hardie, Jake Fraser-McGurk

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka?, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jeffrey Vandersay, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Nuwanidu Fernando, Nishan Madushka, Mohamed Shiraz, Eshan Malinga

Also READ: Sri Lanka Cricket announces squad fo?r Australia ODIs, drops all-??rounder Chamindu Wickramasinghe

Broadcast and Live Streaming details

• Sri Lanka: Siyatha TV, Ten Cricket (Dialog and PEO TV); Sri Lanka Cricket YouTube Channel (Digital)
• India: Sony Sports Network; SonyLiv and FanCode
• Australia: 7Cricket, 7Plus
• Pakistan: Tapmad
• Caribbean: Rush
• MENA and South East Asia: Cricbuzz
• UK and Republic of Ireland: TNT Sports
• Sub-Saharan Africa: SuperSport

Also READ: 5 Australian players w??ho can replace Pat?? Cummins and Josh Hazlewood in Champions Trophy 2025

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.