Australia got off the mark at the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 and did so in style as they put Sri Lanka to the sword, picking up a 5-wicket win.
Mitchell Marsh and Josh Inglis became the first two batters to score fifties for Australia during the 2023 edition, helping Pat Cummins’ men ease through the chase of 210 runs.
Earlier, Sri Lanka captain Kusal Mendis had won the toss and he elected to bat first, but they could only score 209 runs despite a strong start from the openers. Kusal Perera smashed 78 runs, while Pathum Nissanka scored 61, the pair stitched together a 125-run stand.
Cummins drew first blood for Australia when he got rid of Nissanka as David Warner took a sublime catch before the Australian captain removed Perera as well. It opened the floodgates for the Aussies, who were able to pick up the next 8 wickets for just 84 runs.
Australia vs Sri Lanka | AUS vs SL World Cup 2023 Highlights
Besides Nissanka and Perera, only Charith Asalanka scored 25 runs and managed to reach double figures, while the remaining seven batters all recorded single digits. It was a total flop show as the Lankan Lions failed to tackle Adam Zampa who picked up a four-wicket haul. Besides Cummins, Mitchell Starc also picked up 2 wickets.
As a consequence, Sri Lanka were bundled out for 209, and Australia got over the line to pick up two valuable points, albeit there were a few hiccups along the road.
Australian openers Marsh and David Warner started well, but Warner was dismissed on 11 in a controversial dismissal that left the southpaw red-faced. J Wilson gave Warner out and the replays showed umpire’s call, the 36-year-old was pleased but credit to Dilshan Madhushanka who dismissed Steven Smith four balls later.
Marsh hit his fifty, as he steadied the ship but departed later as he was run out courtesy of excellent work from the Sri Lanka fielders.
ICC World Cup: SCHEDULE | RESULTS | POINTS TABLE | MOST RUNS | MOST WICKETS
Sri Lanka continued to fight but Marnus Labuschagne joined hands with Josh Inglis and their partnership killed off any hopes of an upset. Labuschagne scored 40 while Inglis was denied a chance of returning unbeaten when he gave away an easy catch to Maheesh Theekshana.
Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell got the five-time World Cup champs over the line. The win is Australia’s record ninth win over Sri Lanka, the most by any team against a certain opponent in the history of the ODI World Cup.
Back to the drawing board then for Sri Lanka, who have plenty to figure out, while Pat Cummins and Co are underway. Time running out for Kusal Mendis’ side.
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