Sri Lanka had a tough start in the first ODI against Australia at R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, as they lost four wickets within the first 10 overs, managing only 39 runs.
Pathum Nissanka (4 off 5) and Avishka Fernando (1 off 4) fell early to Spencer Johnson and Aaron Hardie, respectively. Wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis showed some resistance with a quick 19 off 17 but was dismissed by Hardie. Kamindu Mendis (5 off 8) also departed cheaply.
At the crease, captain Charith Asalanka (3 off 16) and Janith Liyanage (4 off 10) are looking to stabilize the innings.
For Australia, Aaron Hardie (2/9 in 4 overs) and Spencer Johnson (2/26 in 4 overs) have done the damage, while Sean Abbott and Nathan Ellis have kept the pressure on.
Sri Lanka will need a strong middle-order recovery to put up a competitive total.
