The Hundred 2025 is set to ignite the English summer, kicking off on August 5, 2025,?? with its fifth season promising an electrifying mix of fast-paced cricket and blockbuster entertainment. This unique 100-ball competition continues to captivate audiences, blending innovative gameplay with a festival-like atmosphere, and this year, it’s raising the stakes with a star-studded lineup of global icons ready to dazzle fans.

Steve Smith, Rashid Khan get direct signings

Australian superstar Steve Smith will be seen entertaining fans as he has signed by Welsh Fire for the upcoming edition of the unique tournament. Smith expressed his excitement about joining Welsh Fire, highlighting that he was originally set to participate at the tournament’s inception but now that he finally has the opportunity, he is eager to experience the unique format firsthand. Similarly, Afghanistan spin maestro Rashid Khan has be??en roped in by Oval Invincibles for the upcoming edition of The Hundred.

No Ben Stokes in The Hundred 2025

Interestingly, England Test captain Ben Stokes will not be seen in the forthcoming season as he has decided to withdraw from the tournament to pri??oritize his fitness in a crucial year that features a home series against India and The Ashes in Australia from November to January.

Notably, Stokes sustained a left hamstring tear while pl??aying for Northern Superchargers last year, which forced him to miss four England Tests. He later aggravated the same injury while bowling during England’s tour of New Zealand in Decem??ber.

Also READ: Sanjiv Goenka outbids an IPL rival to acquire Manchester Originals for a record pri??ce in The Hundred �?Reports

Complete list of retained players and direct signings for The Hundred Men’s 2025

• Birmingham Phoenix: Liam Livingstone, Ben Duckett, Trent Boult, Jacob Bethell, Benny Howell, Adam Milne, Dan Mousley, Tim Southee, Will Smeed, Chris Wood, Aneurin Donald
• London Spirit: Liam Dawson, Daniel Worrall, Kane Williamson, Richard Gleeson, Olly Stone, Ollie Pope, Keaton Jennings
• Manchester Originals: Jos Buttler, Phil Salt, Heinrich Klaasen, Matthew Hurst, Scott Currie, Josh Tongue, Tom Hartley, Sonny Baker, Tom Aspinwall
• Northern Superchargers: Harry Brook, Adil Rashid, David Miller, Mitchell Santner, Brydon Carse, Matthew Potts, Ben Dwarshuis, Graham Clark, Pat Brown, Tom Lawes
• Oval Invincibles: Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Tom Curran, Jordan Cox, Rashid Khan, Saqib Mahmood, Sam Billings, Gus Atkinson, Nathan Sowter, Donovan Ferreira, Tawanda Muyeye
• Southern Brave: James Vince, Jofra Archer, Tymal Mills, Chris Jordan, Faf du Plessis, Leus Du Plooy, Craig Overton, Laurie Evans, Finn Allen, Danny Briggs, James Coles
• Trent Rockets: Joe Root, Marcus Stoinis, Tom Banton, John Turner, Sam Cook, Sam Hain, Tom Alsop, Calvin Harrison
• Welsh Fire: Steve Smith, Jonny Bairstow, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Tom Abell, Luke Wells, Stephen Eskinazi

Also READ: Top 5 non-wicketkeep??ers with most catches in Test cricket ft. Steve Smith

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The seventh match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to deliver an exciting contest as Australia and South Africa lock horns at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on February 25. Both teams have begun their campaigns on a dominant note, securing emphatic victories in their opening fixtures. With momentum on their side, this clash carries immense significance in the Group B standings, a?s the winner will edge significantly closer to securing a semi-final spot.

ODI Stats and Records at Rawalpindi:

• Total matches: 26
• Matches won batting first: 11
• Matches won bowling first: 14
• Average 1st Inns scores: 242
• Average 2nd Inns scores: 213
• Highest total recorded: 337/3 (48.2 overs) by Pakistan vs New Zealand
• Lowest total recorded: 104/10 (33 Overs) by Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka
• Highest score chased: 337/3 (48.2 Overs) by Pakistan vs New Zealand
• Lowest score defended: 206/9 (50 Overs) by England vs Pakistan

Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium Pitch Report

The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium has long been recognized for its batter-friendly pitches, often providing ideal cond?itions for high-scoring encounters. However, the actual behavior of the surface for the upcoming Test match will be shaped by multiple factors, including pitch preparation and prevailing weather conditions in the lead-up to the game. While historical patterns suggest a track conducive to batting, its true nature will only become evident as the match progresses, potentially offering surprises based on how it evolves.

Also READ: In pics: M?eet the wives and girlfriends of South Africa cricketers ??| Champions Trophy 2025

Rawalpindi Weather Forecast

The weather in Rawalpindi on Tuesday is expected to be cool and wet, with a 25% chance of rain showers throughout the day. The temperature will range between 17°C (high) and 13°C (low), creating chilly conditions. With rain showers likely, there is a strong possibility of interruptions during ??the Australia vs South Africa match. Humidity levels will be around 65%, while winds are expected to blow at 6 km/h, which could assist swing bowlers. Overcast skies and damp conditions may favor fast bowlers, making batting challenging, especially early on. Given the high rain probability, the chances of delays or a re??duced-over game remain significant.

Also READ: In pics: Meet the wives and girlfriends of A?ustralia cricketers | Champions Trophy 2025

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Match 7 of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will witness an exciting encounter between Australia and South Africa at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on February 25. Both teams are entering this match on the back of convincing victories, making this contest crucial in determining the?? Group B standings. With both Australia and South Africa looking strong, a win here would place the victor one step closer to securing a semi-final berth.

Australia and South Africa’s strong start in the Champions Trophy 2025

Australia began their Champions Trophy campaign dominantly, defeating England by five wickets in their opening match. Under the leadership of Steve Smith, the Aussies have showcased resilience and tactical flexibility, making them a formidable contender for the title despite missing key players like Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc. South Africa kicked off their Champions Trophy campaign in dominant fashion, securing a 107-run victory over Afghanistan in their opening game. Their batting lineup, led by Temba Bavuma and Aiden Markram, has already proven its a?bility to post challenging totals. David Miller’s presence in the middle order adds further stability, ensuring South Africa re??mains a well-balanced side.

South Africa’s predicted playing XI for Australia clash

South Africa’s playing XI for the game against Australia is expected to see a change at the top, with Bavuma opening alongside Ryan Rickelton. Heinrich Klaasen could returns to the middle order, replacing Tony de Zorzi, while Rassie van der Dussen, Markram and David Miller form a strong batting core. All-rounders Wiaan Mulder and Marco Jansen add depth with both bat and ball. The bowling attack remains unchanged, featuring pacers Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi, along with spinner Keshav Maharaj. Rickelton, fresh from a century, will be keen to extend his form, while Bavuma aims for another solid knock. Klaasen’s return strengthens the middle order, adding firepower to South Africa’s batting lineup. Jansen and Mulder will play key roles with the ball, providing crucial support to the frontline pacers. Rabada, Ngidi, and Maharaj will lead the bowling unit, aiming to trouble Australia’s batting lineup.

Also READ: In pics: Meet the wives and girlfr??iends of South Africa cricketers | Champions Trophy 2025

Australia’s predicted playing XI for South Africa clash

Matthew Short and Travis Head are set to open for Australia, with Short looking to build on his impressive fifty from the last game. Head, who struggled in the previous outing, will be eager to find form. Skipper Smith leads a middle order featuring Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey and Glenn Maxwell. Inglis and Carey were instrumental in Australia’s previous win, with Inglis scoring an unbeaten century and Carey making 69. Labuschagne contributed with both bat and ball, while Maxwell provided a late flourish and picked up a key wicket. The bowling attack remains unchanged, with Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis and Spencer Johnson forming the pace trio. Adam Zampa continues as the lead spinner, having claimed two wickets in the last game. Dwarshuis, who took three wickets against England, will aim for another strong showing. Johnson and Ellis will look to improve after going wicketless, while Zampa’s rol??e in controlling the middle overs will be crucial.

Also READ: In pics: Meet the wives and girlfriends of Austra?lia cricketers | Champions?? Trophy 2025

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In the high-octane world of international cricket, where every boundary scored and wicket taken is scrutinized under the global spotlight, the emotional bedrock of players often lies far from the pitch. As Australia gear up for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 —a tournament synonymous with pressure and prestige—the role of?? wives, girlfriends, and families becomes paramount. These partners are more than just faces in the crowd; they are confidantes, caregivers, and the steadying force during the turbulent tides of a cricketer’s career. From managing homes during endless? tours to celebrating triumphs and weathering controversies, their support is the invisible thread weaving through the fabric of Australia’s cricketing success. Let’s meet the remarkable women standing beside the men in green and gold.

Steve Smith & Dani Willis: The Captain’s quiet strength

Steve Smith’s wife, Dani Willis, has been his anchor since their 2018 wedding. A marketing profession??al who shuns the limelight, Dani stood resolutely by Smith during the 2018 ball-tampering scandal, embodying loyalty. Her calm demeanour balances Smith’s intense? on-field persona, offering solace during highs and lows.

Sean Abbott & Brier Neil: A love rooted in sport

Pace bowler Sean Abbott’s wife, Brier Neil, is a former netball player who understands athlete life. The couple, parents to a young daughter, prioritizes privacy, but Brier’s empathy shines through her support during Abbott’s career challenges, including his emotional return after Phillip Hughes�?tragedy.

Alex Carey & Eloise Carey: Balancing duty and family

Wicketkeeper Alex Carey’s wife, Eloise, a nurse, juggles her demanding career wit??h raising their two children. Her resilience allows Carey to focus on the game, knowing their?? family thrives under her steadfast care.

Ben Dwarshuis & Courtney Bridge: Adventurers in love

Fast bowler Ben Dwarshuis�?girlfriend, Courtney Bridge, is a teacher and eco-advocate. Their Instagram showcases shared adventures, from h??iking to beach trips, reflecting a bond built on wanderlust and mutual support.

Nathan Ellis & Connie Edwards: Schoolteacher’s lesson in love

Nathan Ellis�?wife, Connie Edwards, a schooltea??cher, married the bowler in 2022. Her grounding presence has been vital d?uring Ellis�?injury comebacks, proving that patience is as crucial off the field as pace is on it.

Also READ: In pics: Mee??t the wives and girlfriends of South Africa cricketers | Champions Trop?hy 2025

Jake Fraser-McGurk & Maddie White: Young love, shared ambition

Rising star Jake Fraser-McGurk’s girlfriend, Maddie White, is a student and athlete. Their shared fitness? routines and youthful en?ergy mirror Jake’s meteoric rise, blending romance with ambition.

Aaron Hardie & Anna Bodlovich: Fitness duo goals

All-rounder Aaron Hardie’s partner, Anna Bodlovich, a fitness instr?uctor, often shares workout videos with him. Her expertise fuels Hardie’s athleticism, symbolizing a partnership that thrives on health and hustle.

Travis Head & Jessica Davies: Philanthropy and parenthood

Travis Head’s wife, Jessica Davies, balances motherhood (they have a son, Oscar) with mental health advocacy. Her charity work and vibrant social media presence make her a fan favori?te, embodying grace under public scrutiny.

Josh Inglis & Megan Kincart: Wedding Bells and wicketkeeping

Engaged to wedding planner Megan Kincart, Josh Inglis benefits from her knack for org??aniza?tion. Megan’s events during tours keep team spirits high, proving love and logistics go hand-in-hand.

Spencer Johnson & Sarah Petherick: Yoga and quiet devotion

Fast bowler Spencer Johnson’s partner, Sarah Petherick, a teacher?? and yoga enth??usiast, brings zen to their private life. Their low-key romance highlights the power of quiet companionship.

Marnus Labuschagne & Rebekah Labuschagne: Cross-continental commitment

Marnus�?wife, Rebe??kah, left her South African home to support his career. Now a mother of two, she champions charity causes, blending family life ?with philanthropy.

Glenn Maxwell & Vini Raman: A multicultural power couple

Glenn Maxwell’s wife, Vini Raman, an Indian-origin pharmacist, adds cultural richness to their bond. Her steadfastness during Maxwel??l’s mental health breaks showcases love’s healing power.

Tanveer Sangha: Family first

Young leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha keeps his personal life private, drawing strength from his close-knit family. Their unwavering belief fuels his m??eteoric rise.

Matthew Short & Madi Wilson: Low-key love

Batter Matthew Short’s wife, Madi Wilson, a swimmer??, prefers staying out of headlin??es. Her support during his domestic cricket grind underscores humility behind the scenes.

Adam Zampa & Harriet Palmer: fashion and fatherhood

Spin wizard Adam Zampa’s partner, Harriet Palmer, a fashion designer, balances motherhood and her br?and. Their chic, fami?ly-oriented life reflects modern partnership goals.

Cooper Connolly: Family’s rising star

Travelling reserve Cooper Connolly ?leans on family support as he navigates early career challenges, proving that behind every young talent is a proud household.

Also READ: In Pic?s: Meet the wives and girlfriends of ?England cricketers | Champions Trophy 2025

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The much-awaited ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has commenced, and Australia are set to begin their campaign against arch-rivals England on February 22 (Saturday). However, the mul??tiple-time c??hampions have suffered a major blow ahead of the tournament, with several of their key players ruled out due to injuries or withdrawals.

Key absences a major concern for Australia

Australia’s hopes of securing their third Champions Trophy title have taken a hit with the absence of five first-choice players �?Pat Cummins, Marcus Stoinis, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Mitchell Marsh. The depletion of their bowling unit could be a major concern, as the Kangaroos will have to rely on relatively inexperienced pacers like Spencer Johnson, Aaron Hardie, Nathan Ellis, and Ben Dwarshuis to deliver on the big stage.

Batting still strong under Steve Smith’s leadership

Despite the setbacks in their bowling department, Australia’s batting remains a strong suit, with experienced players like Travis Head, Steve Smith, and Marnus Labuschagne leading the charge. Under Smith’s captaincy, the team will look to ??make up for their weakened bowling attack by posting compet??itive totals and relying on their all-rounders for balance.

Also SEE: In pics – Meet the wives and girlfriends of South Africa cricketers | Champions Trophy 2025

Australia’s predicted playing XI for the Champions Trophy 2025 game England

1. Travis Head (Opener)

• Strength: Aggressive stroke-maker with the ability to take on pacers and spinners alike. His experience in high-pressure matches makes him a valuable asset.
• Expectation: Australia will rely on Head to provide a quick and solid start, setting the tone for the innings.

2. Matthew Short (Opener)

• Strength: A dynamic batter who can anchor the innings or accelerate when needed. Also offers handy off-spin.
• Expectation: Needs to complement Head at the top and capitalize on the powerplay overs. His off-spin could also be useful in the middle overs.

3. Marnus Labuschagne (Middle-order batter)

• Strength: Reliable technique and temperament in ODI cricket. Can steady the innings if early wickets fall.
• Expectation: Expected to be the stabilizer in the middle order, rotating strike and forming partnerships with aggressive batters.

4. Steve Smith (c) (Middle-order batter & Captain)

• Strength: One of the best batters in world cricket, known for adaptability and game awareness. His leadership experience is crucial.
• Expectation: Needs to anchor the innings and guide the middle order, especially in case of a top-order collapse.

5. Aaron Hardie (All-rounder)

• Strength: Hard-hitting lower-order batter who can accelerate in the death overs. Can also chip in with medium pace.
• Expectation: Expected to provide finishing power and contribute with the ball as a fifth or sixth bowling option.

6. Glenn Maxwell (All-rounder)

• Strength: An explosive finisher who can change games single-handedly. Also a quality off-spinner.
• Expectation: Australia will look to Maxwell for quick runs in the latter stages and to break partnerships with his off-spin.

7. Alex Carey (wk) (Wicketkeeper-batter)

• Strength: Dependable behind the stumps and a composed middle-order batter. Capable of playing both defensive and attacking innings.
• Expectation: Needs to anchor the lower middle order and provide stability if needed. His keeping skills will be key, especially against spin.

8. Nathan Ellis (Fast bowler)

• Strength: A skilled death bowler with variations like slower balls and yorkers.
• Expectation: Will be crucial in restricting runs in the slog overs and picking up key wickets in the death.

9. Spencer Johnson (Fast bowler)

• Strength: Left-arm pacer who can generate extra bounce and movement early in the innings.
• Expectation: Expected to provide early breakthroughs and maintain pressure with his pace and accuracy.

10. Adam Zampa (Leg-spinner)

• Strength: Australia’s lead spinner with an excellent record in ODIs. Can control the middle overs and take crucial wickets.
• Expectation: Needs to break partnerships and restrict runs in the middle phase of the innings.

11. Tanveer Sangha (Leg-spinner)

• Strength: A rising star with sharp leg-spin variations, including a deceptive googly.
• Expectation: Likely to complement Zampa in spin-friendly conditions and provide attacking options in the middle overs.

Also READ: Australia’s group-stage rivals: Evaluating Afghanistan, South Africa and England in Champions Trophy 2025

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The much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to take place in Pakistan and the UAE, featuring eight of the world’s top teams competing for the prestigious title.?? As one of cricket’s most celebrated tournaments, the event has already generated immense excitement among fans. The playing conditions in Dubai and Pakistan are expected to play a crucial role, with dry pitches, spin-friendly surfaces, and potential dew factors influencing the games. Teams will need to adapt quickly to these challenges to make a mark in the tournament.

Michael Clarke names his favourite team

Former Australian captain Michael Clarke shared his insights on the upcoming tournament, highlighting India as the strongest team in ODIs. Speaking on the Beyond 23 P??odcast, Clarke praised the Indian squad’s depth, particularly in their batting lineup and spin attack, which he believes will give them an edge in the tournament.

“The Indian team is a very strong team. They have great batsmen and excellent spinners. The pitch in Dubai will be different. Rohit Sharma has come into great form. Hardik Pandya is a great all-rounder. The Indian team is a very good team in ODIs. This is a format in which it is difficult for other teams to defeat the Indian team,” Clarke said.

Clarke’s remarks come at a time when India’s recent performances in ODI cricket have been dominant, with the team boasting a balanced combination of experienced pla??yers and emerging stars.

Also READ: West?? Indies legend Chris ?Gayle predicts the winner of Champions Trophy 2025

Still a threat despite injuries in the team

While Australia have been hit with injuries to key players, Clarke believes they remain a dangerous side. He pointed out that Steve Smith’s leadership and Travis Head’s impact could be pivotal for the team’s success in the Champion?s Trophy.

“Even though the key players of the Australian team are injured, the team still has great players. There is Travis Head, who is definitely very important for Australia in this tournament. On the other hand, Steve Smith is captaining. Australia is still a strong team,” Clarke added.

Also READ: Muttiah Muralitharan names 2 key players for India’s Champion?s Trophy 2025 suc??cess

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Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli registered his 73rd ODI half-century in a crucial knock of 52 runs against England at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium on February 12. This innings marked his first ODI fifty since the conclusion of the 2023 World Cup and came at a pivotal moment in India’s innings. Batting at number three, Kohli walked in as early as the second over and steadied the innings alongside Shubman Gill. His composed 55-ball stay featured seven exquisite boundaries and a towering six, showcasing his class and determ??ination in leading India’s recovery.

Virat Kohli breaks Sachin Tendulkar’s record

Apart from ending his fifty drought, Kohli also achieved a historic batting milestone by becoming the fastest cricketer in history to complete 16,000 international runs in Asia across all formats. He reached this feat in just 340 innings, surpassing the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who previously he??ld the record by achieving the landmark in 353 innings. Kohli’s feat solidifies his status as one of the greatest batters to have played in the subcontinen??t, where conditions often demand exceptional adaptability and skill.

With this achievement, Kohli now has an astounding 16,025 runs in Asia across Tests, ODIs, ??and T20Is. His consistency and ability to dominate bowling attacks in the region have been unparalleled. His remarkable tally comprises numerous match-winning knocks, including multiple centuries and fifties, reinforcing his stature as one of the finest batters in cricket history.

Also READ: Jasprit Bumrah’s fit enough report ??proved insufficient for selectors�?approval

Another feat unlocked against England

In addition to his Asian record, Kohli also became the first Indian and sixth overall cricketer to amass 4,000 international runs against England. The 36-year-old batter accomplished this milestone in his 87th match against the Thr?ee Lions. His record against England includes eight centuries and 23 half-centuries, with an average of 41.23. This milestone further underscores his ability to excel against top cricketing nations across formats. Among active players, Steve Smith leads the charts with 4,815 runs against England. Kohli, however, is the fastest Indian to achieve the feat, further solidifying his stature as one of the most prolific run-getters of his era.

A return to form for India after Test cricket struggles

Kohli’s return to form in ODIs comes after a series of underwhelming performances in Test cricket. His innings in Ahmedabad was a much-needed boost, displaying his trademark composure and stroke play. His ability to anchor the innings and counter England’s disciplined bowling attack demonstrated why he remains India’s most reliable batter across formats.  Kohli’s latest fifty – his 73rd in ODIs – marked his return to form after a lean patch in Test cricket. He was eventually dismissed for 52 off 55 balls by England’s leg-spinner Adil Rashid. With multiple records to his name and his insatiable hunger for runs, Kohli continues to solidify his legacy as one of the greatest batters in cricket history. As India gears up for upcoming challenges, his form will be crucial in determining the team’s success.

Also READ: IND ??vs ENG: Shubman Gill surpasses Hashim Amla to achieve a major milestone in ODI cricket

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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 Australia 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 stabilit??y at the top.

However, Asalanka, leading the team in this match, played a remarkable captain’s knock under immense pressure. His 127 off 126 deliv?eries was a blend of resilience, calculated aggression, and match awareness. With 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 wicket??s 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 Smi??th’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. That’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

Brilliant bowling performance from Sri Lanka ⚡�?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! Never easy to carry a team from 30/3, to ??214 almost single handedly! Well done to the skipper!

— 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 Sm?ith grabs a stunner at s??lips to dismiss Janith Liyanage 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 went upstairs to check if the catch was clean, but replays confirmed Smith’s safe hands. I?t was a textbook slip catch, showcasing his razor-sharp reflexes and impeccable technique.

Liyanage, who had struggled to 11 off 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 h??is reputation as one of the ??safest 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 lightnin??g reflexes send Avishka Ferna??ndo 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, provide??d the crucial breakthrough with Liyanage’s wicket, thanks to Smith’s h?eroics.

Sri Lanka’s innings has been a story of missed opport?unities 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 Liyanage in t??he 15th over further dented their hopes of posting a competitive total.

Australia in control of the game

Wi?th Sri Lanka struggling at 86/5 after 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 sta??ge a remarkable recovery, Sri Lanka’s decision to bat first could haunt them as the match progresses.

Steve Smith’s catch was not just a moment of individual brilliance but also? a testament to Australia’s dominance in the field. As the game unfolds, Sri Lanka wil?l need a miracle to turn the tide in their favour.

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