Sri Lanka had done the undoing. They have beaten the mighty Australian side in two successive matches to take a 2-1 lead in the five-match ODI series. It took Sri Lanka more than 20 years to beat Australia in back-to-back matches. They set a few records on Sunday as a result of this. After winning the toss, Aaron Finch chose to bat first.
Australia made 291/6 in their 50 overs. Skipper made 62 runs off 85 balls. In the end, really good innings from Travis Head (70* off 65) and Alex Carey (49) helped them reach the near 300-run mark. It was never an easy chase for the home team against strong Australian bowlers.
Chasing the target, Niroshan Dickwella scored a quick 25 runs and got out. But after that, a massive second wicket partnership of 217 runs between Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis just took the match in favour of their team. Unfortunately, Mendis missed his century and got retired hurt at 87 off 85 balls, including eight fours.
But Nissanka stayed solid at the other end and took Sri Lanka till the very end. He scored his maiden century and registered the highest score for a Sri Lankan batsman against Australia. He scored 137 runs off 148, including 11 fours and two sixes.
In the end, Sri Lanka won the match with six wickets in hand and nine balls to spare. It was their highest ODI chase against the Men in Yellow.
Twitter Reacts on back-to-back wins for Sri Lanka against Australia
Nissanka was adjudged “Man of the Match” for his incredible century and there was a celebration mood among Sri Lankan fans. Twitter also erupted and congratulated the young Sri Lankan team.