Ruthless Sri Lanka decimate Australia to clinch series

Ruthless Sri Lanka decimate Australia to clinch series

Australia's Champions Trophy preparations suffered a setback as Sri Lanka clinched the series 2-0 with a 174-run victory in the second ODI. The Australians were bowled out for 107 in just 24.2 overs while chasing 282.

Sri Lanka's captain, Charith Asalanka, once again delivered with the bat, scoring 78*. He was involved in a vital partnership with Kusal Mendis, who scored a century (101). The duo ensured that Sri Lanka didn't lose wickets in heaps like they did in the opening game.

Early on, Sri Lanka made only 27 in the first nine overs before Kusal and Nishan Madushka took on Matthew Short in his very first over. After Madushka's dismissal for 51, Asalanka and Kusal continued to milk the attack, setting themselves up for a big finish. Janith Liyanage also contributed with 21 off 13 balls.

Asitha Fernando's dream new ball spell saw him remove the Australian top order inside seven overs, while Dunith Wellalage and Wanindu Hasaranga wreaked havoc, sharing seven wickets between them.

Brief scores:

• Sri Lanka: 281/4 in 50 overs (Kusal Mendis 101, Charith Asalanka 78*)
• Australia: 107 in 24.2 overs (Steve Smith 29; Dunith Wellalage 4/35, Wanindu Hasaranga 3/23, Asitha Fernando 3/23)