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Colombo: Steven Smith’s resilient half-century helps Australia edge past Sri Lanka by 3 wickets in the first 50-over contest against Sri Lanka at R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo on Sunday.
Given Australia’s dismal performance against spin in the Test series, chasing 228 runs appeared like an uphill climb on a track that generated ferocious turn and bounce.
All the same, this is the visitors’ first win in this tour, and would look to continue the winning momentum and avenge the whitewash.
After winning the toss, Smith invited Angelo Mathews’ men to bat first. The decision paid off as Mitchell Starc and co. made early inroads, reducing the hosts to 45 for 2.
However, it was the 79-run stand between Kusal Mendis and Dinesh Chandimal that provided the much needed impetus. Though Mendis fell for 67, Chandimal remained unbeaten on 80 to take his team to 227 for 8.
While Starc continued his stellar show and picked a three-for, James Faulkner’s figures read 4 for 38.
Australia, nonetheless, went all guns blazing as soon as they started the run-chase. Despite losing David Warner early, Aaron Finch fired on all cylinders and scored 56 off 46, including seven fours and two sixes.
Be that as it may, it was Smith who placed himself in the forefront of the run-chase, playing a gritty innings.
With Amilo Aponso and Lakshan Sandakan taking control over the game, Smith stood rock solid and picked his shots to perfection.
In addition, with veteran George Bailey at the other end, Smith paced his innings well and put Australia in a comfortable position, before being dismissed on 58.
But Sri Lankan spinners fed on Australia’s weakness and made sure they won’t have an easy time reaching the target, as they took as many as 7 wickets.
However, Australia registered their highest run-chase in Australia, leading the five-match series 1-0.
Brief scores
Sri Lanka - 227 for 8 (Chandimal 80*, Mendis 67, Faulkner 4-38, Starc 3-32)
Australia - 228 for 7 (Smith 58, Finch 56, D Perera 3-48)
Result - Australia won by 3 wickets
MOM - James Faulkner (Australia)
