New Zealand are set to face Sri Lanka in a six-match series, comprising three ODIs and three T20Is, starting March 4 in Napier. The White Ferns have announced a 16-member squad, with experienced batter Suzie Bates leading the side in the absence of full-time ODI captain Sophie Devine, who is on a break.

New Zealand to host Sri Lanka for three ODIs and T20Is each

Star all-rounder Amelia Kerr will also miss the series as she is participating in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) with Mumbai Indians Women. This series will serve as an opportunity for young players to gain international exposure, with the squad featuring three uncapped players. Head coach Ben Sawyer emphasized the significance of this series, particula??rly with the ODI World Cup scheduled in India later this year, where conditions are expected to favour spin.

New Zealand will also face Australia in a T20I series from March 21, which will further test their combinations before the World Cup preparations intensify. W??ith an exciting mix of young talent and experienced campaigners, the White Ferns will be keen to build momentum in this home series and fine-tune their squad for the challenges ahead.

Uncapped trio earns call-up for New Zealand

New Zealand selectors have identified Emma McLeod, Izzy Sharp and Bree Illing as promising talents, rewardin??g them for their impressive performances in domestic cricket. Head coach Ben Sawyer highlighted the reasons behind their selection, citing their skill sets and adaptability to international cricket.

“Emma, Bree, and Izzy have been identified by Major Association and NZC coaches as players who have the desired competencies and skill sets to be effective in international cricket. Emma’s been in good form in the HBJ Shield, and her ability to hit through the off-side and run well between the wickets is really valuable. Izzy impressed us with how she attacks spin, which will come in handy in this series. Bree’s ability to attack the stumps and swing the ball back into the right-hander is crucial at the international level,” Sawyer said in a sta??tement released by Whit??e Ferns.

McLeod, at just 18 years old, has showcased remarkable form in the HBJ Shield, scoring 300 runs at an average of nearly 43, including two half-centuries for Central Districts. Sharp, 20, captained New Zealand’s Under-19 team in the inaugural U-19 T20 World Cup and has been recognized for her ability to handle spin effectively. Illing, 21, has been a consistent wicket-taker for Auckland, picking up 19 wickets at 21.10 in the ongoing domestic one-day competition. She was also a standout performer in the T20 Super Smash, maintaining an economy rate of just 5.44 along with eight wickets.

The series will also mark the return of Georgia Plimmer, who was sidelined due to a bone stress reaction in her hip. Her last app?earance for New Zealand came in the ODI series against India in November, which followed the T20 World Cup victory in Dubai.

Also READ: Here’s why ??Chamari Athapaththu will leave WPL 2025 midway

Squad strength and injury updates

The squad sees a blend of youth and experience, with seasoned players like Bates and Maddy Green forming the core of the team. Hayley Jensen also makes a comeback after two years, following a succe??ssful domestic season.

However, New Zealand will be without several key players due to injuries.

• Lea Tahuhu (hamstring) and Rosemary Mair (elbow) are still in recovery, but Mair is expected to return for the T20I series starting March 14.
• Molly Penfold has been ruled out for at least three months due to a knee injury.
• Bella James, who made her ODI debut against Australia in December, is in line to make her T20I debut in this series.
• Wicketkeeper-batter Polly Inglis has received her second call-up, having been part of the India tour but yet to make her international debut.

Sawyer mentioned that the coaching staff will use this series to experiment with different combinations, allowing players ??to gain experi?ence in varied roles.

“Sri Lanka is a tough opposition with a number of world-class spinners. We will try different combinations this series, and I’m looking forward to seeing players adapt to different roles. It’s an opportunity to test batters in different positions and try different bowlers opening up and at the death,” Sawyer concluded.

New Zealand’s squad for the ODI and T20I series

• Available in Both ODI & T20I:
  Suzie Bates (C), Eden Carson, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Hayley Jensen, Jess Kerr, Georgia Plimmer
• ODI Only:
  Bree Illing, Polly Inglis, Hannah Rowe
• T20I Only:
  Fran Jonas, Rosemary Mair, Izzy Sharp, Bella James

Schedule for New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Women’s series

The ODI squad will assemble on March 2 in Napier following the HBJ Shield final on March 1.

ODI Series:

• 1st ODI â€?March 4, Napier
• 2nd ODI â€?March 7, Nelson
• 3rd ODI â€?March 9, Nelson

T20I Series:

• 1st T20I â€?March 14, Christchurch
• 2nd T20I â€?March 16, Christchurch
• 3rd T20I â€?March 18, Dunedin

Also READ: Women’s cricket witnesses a remarkable 103% surge in popularity across ?India in 20??24

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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The inaugural International Masters League (IML T20), set to begin on February 22, will bring together six cricketing giants – India, England, Australia, South Africa, Sri Lanka and the West Indies – in a 19-day spectacle spanning three Indian cities.

Tournament Structure and Venues

The league will kick off with 15 high-octane round-robin fixtures across Navi Mumba?i’s DY Patil Stadium, Vadodara’s Reliance Arena and Raipur’s Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Complex.

Teams will vie for a spot in the cha????mpionship decider, slated for March 16, in Raipur.

Ahead of the tournament, cricket royalty gathered at DY Patil University for the IML T20 Captains�Day. Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar shared the stage with Sri Lanka veteran Kumar Sangakkara, West Indies�batting maestro Brian Lara, England’s 2019 World Cup-winning skipper Eoin Morgan, Australian star all-rounder Shane Watson, and South African stalwart Jonty Rhodes, who stood in for captain Jacques Kallis. The ev??ent highlighted the league’s ethos o??f blending legacy with competitive spirit.

IML T20 2025: Fixtures

• February 22: India Masters vs Sri Lanka Masters â€?D.Y. Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai
• February 23: Australia Masters vs South Africa Masters â€?D.Y. Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai
• February 24: West Indies Masters vs England Masters â€?D.Y. Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai
• February 25: India Masters vs England Masters â€?D.Y. Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai
• February 26: South Africa Masters vs Sri Lanka Masters â€?D.Y. Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai
• February 28: West Indies Masters vs Australia Masters â€?Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot
• March 1: England Masters vs Sri Lanka Masters â€?Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot
• March 2: India Masters vs South Africa Masters â€?Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot
• March 4: Australia Masters vs England Masters â€?Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot
• March 5: West Indies Masters vs Sri Lanka Masters â€?Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot
• March 6: India Masters vs Australia Masters â€?Niranjan Shah Stadium, Rajkot
• March 8: South Africa Masters vs West Indies Masters â€?Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur
• March 9: India Masters vs West Indies Masters â€?Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur
• March 10: Sri Lanka Masters vs Australia Masters â€?Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur
• March 11: England Masters vs South Africa Masters â€?Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur
• March 13: Semifinal 1 (1st vs 4th) â€?Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur
• March 14: Semifinal 2 (2nd vs 3rd) â€?Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur
• March 16: Final â€?Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur

Note: All games will start at 7:30 pm IST

Also READ: International Masters League (IML T20) 2025: Complete squads of all si??x teams

Broadcast and Live Streaming details

Viacom 18 i??s the official broadcast partner for IMLT20 in India and will telecast all matches live on Colors Cineplex and Colors Cineplex Superhits TV channels.

The newly rebranded Jio Hotstar holds the digital streaming rights for t??he tournament, offering live coverage on the JioHotstar app and website.

Also READ: Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma get divorced after 4 years of marriage – Reports

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The countdown to the International Masters League (IML T20) 2025 is officially on, with the tournament set to kick off on February 22, 2025. This inaugural edition will feature six teams –  England, India, Sri Lanka, Australia, West Indies and South Africa – composed of cricket legends from around the world, showcasing some of the greatest players in the history of the sport.

The 18-match tournament will see the teams taking on each other in 15 league games, beginning at 2:00 pm G??MT/7:30 ??pm IST.

T??he most iconic name in the tournament is undoubtedly Sachin Tendulkar, who is set to make a long-awaited return to the field. The India Masters squad also boasts seasoned players like Ambati Rayudu, Yuvraj Singh, Irfan Pathan and more.

Meanwhile, the league will feature cricketing legends such as Brian Lara, Chris Gayle, Shane Watson, Kevin Pietersen, Eoin Morgan, Kum?ar San??gakkara, Jacques Kallis and Jonty Rhodes, adding to the star-studded lineup.

International Masters League 2025: Full Squads

Australia Masters

Callum Ferguson, Nathan Reardon, Shaun Marsh, Ben Cutting, Dan Christian, Shane Watson ?(c), Ben D?unk (wk), Peter Nevill (wk), Ben Hilfenhaus, Ben Laughlin, Bryce McGain, James Pattinson, Jason Krejza, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Xavier Doherty

India Masters

Ambati Rayudu, Gurkeerat Singh Mann, Sachin Tendulkar (c), Suresh Raina, Yuvraj Singh, Irfan Pathan, Stuart Binny, Yusuf Pathan, Naman Ojha (wk), Abhimanyu Mithun, Dhawal Kulkarni, Pawan Negi, Rahul Sharma, Shahbaz Nadeem, Vinay Kum??????????????????????????ar

West Indies Masters

Brian Lara (c), Chris Gayle, Kirk Edwards, Lendl S??immon??s, Narsingh Deonarine, Ashley Nurse, Dwayne Smith, Chadwick Walton (wk), Denesh Ramdin (wk), William Perkins (wk), Fidel Edwards, Jerome Taylor, Ravi Rampaul, Sulieman Benn, Tino Best

Also READ: West Indies legend Chris Gayle pr?edicts the winner of Champions Trophy 2?025

England Masters

Eoin Morgan (c), Ian Bell, Kevin Pietersen, Darren Maddy, Dimitri Mascarenhas, Tim Bresnan, Phil Mustard (wk), Tim Ambrose (wk), Boyd Rankin, C??hris Schofield, Chris Tremlett, Monty Panesar, Ryan Sideb?ottom, Steven Finn, Stuart Meaker

South Africa Masters

Alviro Petersen, Farhaan Behardien, Hashim Amla, Henry Davids, Jacques Rudolph, Jonty Rhodes, Jacques Kallis, JP Duminy, Vernon Philander, Dane Vilas ??(wk),?? Morne van Wyk (wk), Eddie Leie, Garnett Kruger, Makhaya Ntini, Thandi Tshabalala

Sri Lanka Masters

Asela Gunaratne, Lahiru Thirimanne, Upul Tharanga, Ashan Priyanjan, Chaturanga de Silva, Chinthaka Jayasinghe, Dilruwan Perera, Isur??u Udana, Jeevan Me?ndis, Seekkuge Prasanna, Kumar Sangakkara (c & wk), Romesh Kaluwitharana (wk), Dhammika Prasad, Nuwan Pradeep, Suranga Lakmal

Also READ: Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli? Bollywood act??ress Sanya M??alhotra picks her favourite cricketer

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As the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 unfolds, cricket enthusiasts are buzzing with excitement over the tournament’s return after an eight-year hiatus. However, notable absentees from this prestigious event are former champions Sri Lanka and the West Indies. Their absence has raised questions about the qualification process and the current state of cricket in these nations.

Qualification criteria for the Champions Trophy 2025

Champions Trophy 2025 features eight teams: Pakistan (hosts), India, Bangladesh, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Australia, England and South Africa. The qualification for this tournament was based on the performance of teams in the ICC ODI World Cup 2023. The top seven teams from that tournament, excluding the host nation Pakistan, secured their spots in the Champions Trophy. Unfortunately, both Sri Lanka and the West Indies failed to meet this criterion. It was the same case for the Netherlands, Zimbabwe and Ireland – the other missing Full Members.

Which team will lift the Champions Trophy this year?#cricket #ChampionsTrophy2025 #ODI pic.twitter.com/chn9LHGcSa

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 19, 2025

Also READ: Winning percentage of a??ll teams in Champions Trophy history

Absence of Sri Lanka and West Indies: Impact on Global Cricket

The absence of Sri Lanka and West Indies from the Champions Trophy is significant not only for these teams but also for global cricket. Both nations have contributed immensely to the sport’s history and have passionate fan bases. Their absence from such a high-profile tournament diminishes its competitive edge and deprives fans of witnessing some of cricket’s most exciting players.

Looking ahead, both Sri Lanka and West Indies must focus on rebuilding their teams. For Sri Lanka, in??vesting in ??youth development and enhancing domestic competitions could yield positive results in the long run. The West Indies need to address administrative challenges while encouraging players to prioritize national duties over lucrative T20 contracts.

While new teams like Afghanistan are making their mark on the international stage, traditional powerhouses must adapt to remain relevant. As fans enjoy this year’s tournament featuring eight competitive teams, they will undoubtedly look forward to seeing Sri Lanka and the West Indies return to prominence in future international events.

Also READ: Pakistan veteran Mo?hammad Yousuf picks the most balanced sides for Champions? Trophy 2025

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UP Warriorz had a disappointing start to their Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 campaign, suffering a heavy defeat in their opening match against Gujarat Giants. Without their star player and former skipper Alyssa Healy, the team struggled to find the right balance, relying on overseas stars Tahlia McGrath, Grace Harris, Alana King, and Sophie Ecclestone to step up. However, their season has hit another setback with the early departure of senior all-rounder Chamari Athapaththu.

Chamari Athapaththu to leave WPL 2025 midway

The Warriorz’s squad will be further depleted as Athapaththu is set to exit midway through the tournament. The Sri Lankan star, who was left out of the playing XI in their season opener, has been named in Sri Lanka’s squad for the upcoming white-ball tour of New Zealand. As the designated captain for both formats, Athapaththu will leave the Warriorz camp after their fifth match, making her available only until the February 26 clash against Mumbai Indians.

Also READ: New Zealand’s Sophie Devine withdraws f?rom Sri Lanka series to focus on well-being

Sri Lanka’s white-ball series against New Zealand

Athapaththu’s early departure is due to Sri Lanka’s tour of New Zealand, which features three ODIs and three T20Is scheduled between March 4 and March 18. While she will leave WPL 2025 before the playoffs, New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr, who plays for Mumbai ??Indians, will remain with her franchise until the tournament concludes on March 15.

UP Warriorz to feel Athapaththu’s absence

The absence of an experienced all-rounder like Athapaththu will be a big blow for UP Warriorz, especially as they are set to play three home games in Lucknow for the first time in WPL history. With an already shaky start, the Warriorz will have to quickly regroup as they prepare for their next match against ??two-time finalists Delhi Capitals, aiming to turn their campaign around despite the challenges ahead.

Also READ: WV Raman suggests Australian legend as India’s mentor for Women’s ??ODI World Cup 2025

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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

In a major development, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has announced that star all-rounder Sophie Devine will miss the upcoming white-ball series against Sri Lanka. This follows her earlier withdrawals from the Women’s Super Smash and the 2025 Women’s Premier League (WPL), signaling a strong emphasis on her personal well-b?eing.

NZC extended full support to Devine, stressing that player welfare remains their top priority. “Sophie has been an incredible asset to the team, but her health and well-being come first,” stated an NZC spokesperson.

“We support her decision wholeheartedly and look forward to seeing her back when she’s ready,” the spokesperson added.

A pivotal player for the White Ferns

Devine has been a cornerstone of the White Fe??rns, known for her explosive batting and impactful bowling performances. Her ab??sence from the Women’s Super Smash, a premier domestic T20 competition, hinted at her need for rest. Now, opting out of the Sri Lanka series further highlights the seriousness of her situation.

Skipping WPL adds to the concern

Devine was set to play a crucial role in the WPL 2025, but she has also stepped away from the tournament. She had previously cited professional advice as the reason ??for these decisions, aiming to manage both her physical and mental health effectively.

Also READ: RCB announces replacements of Sophie Devine and ?Kat?e Cross for WPL 2025

Impact on New Zealand’s team

Losing a player of Devine’s caliber is a setback for New Zealand as they prepare for a tough contest against Sri Lanka. Her leadership and match-winning abilities will be missed, but the team management remains confident in the squad’s depth. Several young players will now have the oppo??rtunity to step up in her absence.

While Devine’s return timeline remains uncertain, her decision?? reflects a growing awareness of mental and physical well-being in modern cricket. Fans and teammates alike will be hoping for her swift recovery and eventual comeback.

Also READ: WV Raman suggests Australian legend as India’s mentor for? Women’s ODI World Cup 2025

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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

The second ODI between Sri Lanka and Australia at the R Premadasa Stadium in Co?lombo, will be remembered for one moment of brilli?ance 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 bowle??d a full delivery that seemed innocuous at first glance. Maxwell, known for his aggressive batting, stepped 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 ba??ck 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 A??US: Sri 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 Australi??an 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 perfect foil, remaining unbeaten on 78 off 66 ba??lls. 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 ship with a ?46-run partnership, but their efforts were in vain. Inglis was dismissed f??or 22, while Smith fell for 29.

The middle and lower order offered little resistance. Aaron Hardie (0) an?d Maxwell (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 disappointing 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 lose??s his wicket to a rash shot against Aaron Hardie

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The second ODI between Sri Lanka and Australia at the R. Premadasa Stadium on February 14, 2025, was a thrilling encounter filled with dramatic moments. One such moment came when Adam Zampa pulled off a stunning yet nerve-wracking catch to dismiss Sri Lanka’s Nishan Madushka. T??he incident not only showcased Zampa’s brilliance but also highlighted the fine margins that often decide the outcome of ?a match.

Adam Zampa’s catch: The edge of the boundary drama

The 25th over of Sri Lanka’s innings saw Ben Dwarshuis deliver a short?-pitched ball that angled in sharply. Madushka, who had been batting confidently, attempted a hook shot but only managed to top-edge the ball. It soared high into the air, heading straight toward Zampa at deep fine leg. What followed was a moment of pure cricketing drama.

Zampa positioned himself perfectly, grabbed the catch, and then, realizing his momentum was taking him over the boundary rope, tossed the ball into the air. As he regained his balance, he completed the catch again, but his foot brushed against the boundary cushion. The on-field umpires were unsure and called for a TV review. After meticulous scrutiny, the third umpire confirmed it was a clean catch, and Madushka was given out. The dismissal was a turning point in the match, breaking a solid 98-run partnership between Madushka and Kusal Mendis.

Here’s the video:

ADAM ZAMPA ON THE ROPE!

Madushka departs following some Zorba brilliance 🤯 #SLvAUS pic.twitter.com/hez6QuzLYh

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

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

Sri Lanka’s innings: A tale of partnerships and momentum

Sri Lanka, electing to bat first, got off to a shaky start when Pathum Nissanka was dismissed early for just 6 runs. However, Madushka and Mendis steadied the ship with a crucial 98-run partnership. Madushka’s dismissal for 51 brought a brief halt to Sri Lanka’s mom?entum, but Mendis continued to anchor the innings with a composed century.

Mendis�101 off 115 balls was a masterclass in controlled aggression, featuring 11 boundaries. He found able support in Charith Asalanka, who played a blistering knock of 78 not out off just 66 balls, including 6 fours and 3 sixes. Janith Liyanage provided the finishing touches with a quickf??ire 32 off 21 balls,?? helping Sri Lanka post a competitive total of 281/4 in their 50 overs.

Australia’s bowling: A mixed bag

Australia’s bowlers had a mixed day on the field. Dwarshuis and Sean Abbott were the pick of the?? bowlers, picking up a wicket each while maintaining economical figures. Zampa, despite being ex??pensive, contributed with the crucial wicket of Mendis. However, the Australian bowlers struggled to contain Sri Lanka’s middle order, especially during the death overs, where Asalanka and Liyanage unleashed a flurry of boundaries.

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

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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 total. 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 Wellalage was the pick of the bowlers, tak?ing 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 wic?k??et 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 e?mphatic win, Sri Lanka sealed the series comfortably. The first ODI saw Sri Lanka securing a 49-run victory, and this second match further underlined their dominance.

Kusal Mendis, whose? well-paced 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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