Colombo: Australia is in serious trouble in the second ODI against Sri Lanka, stumbling to 33/3 in 6.5 overs while chasing 282 at the R. Premadasa Stadium. The Sri Lankan bowlers, led by Asitha Fernando (2/22 in 3.5 overs) and Maheesh Theekshana (0/11 in 3 overs), have made early inroads, putting the visitors under immense pressure.
Travis Head falls, Australia in disarray
The latest blow came in the 7th over, when Travis Head (18 off 18) attempted a pull shot off Asitha Fernando, only to be caught by substitute fielder Avishka Fernando in the deep. The dismissal triggered wild celebrations in the Sri Lankan camp, as Australia lost its third wicket inside the powerplay.
GONE!
Travis Head falls and Australia are 3-33 😳 #SLvAUS pic.twitter.com/ckgeF4wHfj
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) February 14, 2025
Early wickets leave Australia in tatters
- Jake Fraser-McGurk (4 off 5) was the first to depart, failing to build a solid start.
- Matt Short (5 off 10) followed soon after, unable to counter the disciplined bowling.
- Travis Head (18 off 18), despite showing some intent, perished while trying to accelerate.
At the crease, Steven Smith (4 off 5) and Josh Inglis (0 off 1) now have the responsibility of steadying the innings. With 249 runs still required at a required rate of 5.77, Australia faces an uphill battle to stay alive in the match.
Sri Lanka dictating terms early
With Sri Lanka’s pacers striking early and the spinners yet to come into play, the hosts are in a commanding position. If they continue to apply pressure, Australia could be staring at another batting collapse, jeopardizing their chances of leveling the series.