Australia lost to Sri Lanka by 174 runs in the second ODI of the two-match series, which was their lowest-ever Asian ODI total.
Ahead of the 2025 Champions Trophy, Australia’s issues are getting worse. In the second ODI, Steve Smith’s team faced Sri Lanka, continuing their ongoing series. On February 14, the two teams faced off in Colombo’s R Premadasa Stadium.Australia was hoping for a better showing in the next match after losing the first ODI. Nevertheless, the Australians faced yet another defeat because to their significantly weakened bowling assault. Notable absences from the forthcoming competition include Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Cameron Green, Marcus Stoinis, and Mitchell Marsh.In the second ODI, Australia suffered yet another defeat with a much weaker team. After winning the toss, Sri Lanka entered the game to bat first. Nishan Madushka and Kusal Mendis both had outstanding performances, hitting 51 and 101 runs, respectively, following the early wicket of Pathum Nissanka. In addition, Sri Lanka scored 281 runs in the first innings thanks to 78* runs from Charith Asalanka.
The Australians hoped the match would not be a rerun of the first ODI and aimed to chase down the target. However, the Men in Yellow were destroyed by Sri Lanka’s superb bowling. Matthew Short and Travis Head opened the innings and departed for two and 18 runs, respectively.Additionally, none of the other batters contributed much, with Steve Smith scoring the most runs for the visitors in the second innings with 29. With three-wicket performances from Asitha Fernando and Wanindu Hasaranga and four from Dunith Wellalage, Sri Lanka bowled out the Australians for 107, the lowest total in Asia’s history.
With the Champions Trophy approaching and the Australians lacking some key star power in the team, it could be difficult for Steve Smith and his team to start the major competition well. The hosts trounced Australia by 174 runs.
