Mendis, Fernando Centuries Put Sri Lanka 1-0 Up

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Post on Nov 14, 2024

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Mendis, Fernando Centuries Put Sri Lanka 1-0 Up in Series

Colombo, Sri Lanka: A dominant display of batting from Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis, backed by a crucial century from Dhananjaya de Silva, propelled Sri Lanka to a commanding 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series against Australia. The hosts cruised to a comfortable 10-wicket victory at the R. Premadasa Stadium on Tuesday, chasing down Australia's 291 with 10 overs to spare.

Nissanka and Mendis, the openers, were in scintillating form, sharing a record-breaking 219-run stand for the first wicket. The partnership was the highest ever for Sri Lanka in ODIs, surpassing the previous best of 206 set by Sanath Jayasuriya and Marvan Atapattu against Zimbabwe in 2002.

Nissanka, playing in his 10th ODI, continued his impressive form, reaching his second ODI century with a stroke-filled 119 off 120 balls. He was particularly brutal against the spinners, smashing 12 boundaries and two sixes.

Mendis, meanwhile, notched his 10th ODI century, his first since 2019, with a measured 122 off 136 balls. He displayed remarkable patience and composure, hitting 11 boundaries and a six.

The pair laid the foundation for a comfortable victory, leaving the remaining batters to simply play out the remaining overs. De Silva then added his own impressive chapter to the day, reaching his maiden ODI century with a stylish 102 off 108 balls. His knock included 12 boundaries and a six, showcasing his aggressive batting style.

Australia, despite posting a respectable total thanks to fifties from Travis Head (71), Alex Carey (62) and Glenn Maxwell (57), were unable to contain the Sri Lankan onslaught. Their bowlers were largely ineffective, with only Josh Hazlewood (2/56) managing to pick up more than one wicket.

This comprehensive victory will be a massive boost to Sri Lanka's confidence ahead of the remaining two ODIs. The team, under the leadership of Dasun Shanaka, will be aiming to secure the series win and continue their momentum leading into the Asia Cup.

The second ODI is scheduled for Friday, June 30th, at the same venue.