- Sri Lanka’s confidence: A 2-0 series win boosts their momentum.
- Australia’s batting concerns: Their top order needs stability.
- Sri Lanka’s bowling strength: Wellalage and Hasaranga are in top form.
Sri Lanka Dominates Australia in Warm-Up Series
Australia faced a massive defeat against Sri Lanka in their final warm-up series before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The Sri Lankan team secured a 2-0 series victory, delivering a crushing 147-run defeat in the second match.
Australia, the reigning Cricket World Cup champions, struggled as they were bowled out for just 107 runs. This loss raises concerns about their form before their tournament opener against England.
Kusal Mendis Shines with a Century
Kusal Mendis led the charge for Sri Lanka with an impressive 101 runs. His innings was crucial in building Sri Lanka’s total of 281-4 in 50 overs.
- Nishan Madushka supported the innings with a half-century (51 runs).
- Charith Asalanka remained unbeaten with 78 runs, showcasing Sri Lanka’s depth in batting.
- The Australian bowlers, led by Sean Abbott (1-41), struggled to contain Sri Lanka’s momentum.
Mendis praised his team’s hard work, saying, “We were ranked very low a few months ago, but this is a result of our commitment.”
Australia Collapses Under Sri Lanka’s Bowling Attack
Australia’s batting lineup crumbled under Dunith Wellalage’s bowling masterclass, as he took 4-35.
- Aaron Hardie took an early wicket, dismissing Pathum Nissanka for 6.
- Josh Inglis (22) and Steven Smith (29) tried to rebuild, but Sri Lanka’s bowlers struck at regular intervals.
- Wanindu Hasaranga and Asitha Fernando also contributed, taking three wickets each.
This 107-run collapse is Australia’s second-lowest total against Sri Lanka, raising doubts about their batting strength.
Australia’s Last-Minute Experimentation Before Champions Trophy
Australia made five changes to their squad, trying different combinations before their Champions Trophy opener.
- Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, and Josh Inglis returned after being rested in the first match.
- Tanveer Sangha and Ben Dwarshuis were included in the playing XI.
- Alex Carey, Marnus Labuschagne, and Nathan Ellis were left out.
Captain Steven Smith admitted the team was experimenting, saying, “Hopefully, we can take something from this and have a good tournament in Pakistan.”
How This Impacts ICC Champions Trophy 2025
With the Champions Trophy 2025 starting soon, Australia needs to regroup before facing England on February 22.
Australia must quickly fix their weaknesses before their Champions Trophy campaign begins.
Champions Trophy 2025: What to Expect?
The tournament, set to take place in Pakistan and the UAE, will feature the world’s best teams.
Prize Pool: The ICC Champions Trophy has a $6.9 million prize fund, making it one of cricket’s richest tournaments.
Host Nation’s Return: Pakistan is hosting a major ICC event for the first time since 1996.
With teams finalizing their squads, all eyes are now on Australia’s redemption journey in the upcoming tournament.
Check out the Champions Trophy Stats
