SL vs AUS: Fans go gaga as Charith Asalanka smashes a remarkable ton against Australia in the 1st ODI

Sri Lanka’s decision to win the toss and elect to bat first in the first ODI against Australia seemed like a confident move, but it quickly turned into a nightmare. The top order crumbled under the relentless pressure of Australia’s pace attack, leaving the hosts reeling at 31/4 within the first seven overs. With the likes of Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, and Kusal Mendis back in the pavilion, Sri Lanka’s innings looked destined for disaster. However, amidst the chaos, one man stood tall – Charith Asalanka.

Charith Asalanka plays a gritty captain’s knock

Asalanka’s innings was nothing short of heroic. Walking in at a precarious 31/4, the left-hander displayed immense grit and determination to steady the ship. While wickets continued to fall at the other end, Asalanka held his ground, playing a mix of cautious defence and calculated aggression. His ability to rotate the strike and find the boundaries at crucial moments kept Sri Lanka’s hopes alive.

The highlight of his innings came in the 42nd over when he dabbed a slower ball from Nathan Ellis behind point to bring up his century. The crowd erupted in applause as Asalanka raised his bat, acknowledging the cheers from the stands. His 127 off 126 balls, including 14 fours and 5 sixes, was a masterclass in resilience and adaptability.

Asalanka’s one-man show amidst the collapse

Asalanka’s knock was even more remarkable considering the lack of support from the other end. Apart from Dunith Wellalage’s brief cameo of 30, no other batter managed to cross the 20-run mark. The Sri Lankan innings was a tale of two halves – the early collapse and Asalanka’s defiant resistance. Despite his heroics, Sri Lanka was eventually bowled out for 214 in 46 overs, a total that seemed underwhelming given the conditions. However, Asalanka’s century ensured that the hosts had something to fight for, injecting a sense of pride into an otherwise disappointing batting performance.

Australia’s dominant bowling display

Australia’s bowlers deserve credit for their disciplined and aggressive approach. Spencer Johnson and Aaron Hardie struck early blows, reducing Sri Lanka to 6/2 within the first two overs. Ellis was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with figures of 2/23 in his nine overs, while Sean Abbott chipped in with three crucial wickets. The visitors’ fielding was equally impressive, with sharp catches and agile ground fielding adding to Sri Lanka’s woes. Matthew Short’s diving catch to dismiss Kamindu Mendis and Alex Carey’s safe hands behind the stumps were standout moments in the field.

Also WATCH: Steve Smith grabs a stunner at slips to dismiss Janith Liyanage in the 1st ODI

Here’s how fans reacted:

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Also WATCH: Steve Smith’s lightning reflexes send Avishka Fernando packing in the 1st ODI