Australia secured their first victory in the 2023 World Cup, outclassing Sri Lanka by five wickets in Lucknow.
The target was 210, and Australia reached 215/5 in 35.2 overs, thanks to standout performances from Mitchell Marsh and Josh Inglis. While their top-order batsmen struggled, Marsh’s composed 52 off 51 balls provided hope. Inglis, upon arrival, accelerated the chase, amassing 58 runs from 59 deliveries, well-supported by Labuschagne’s 40. Glenn Maxwell (31*) and Marcus Stoinis (20*) ensured Australia’s successful chase with some exceptional boundary-hitting prowess.
In the first innings, Adam Zampa spearheaded the Australian bowling attack, claiming four crucial wickets to restrict Sri Lanka to 209 all out in 43.3 overs. Sri Lanka, choosing to bat after winning the toss, made an impressive start, with their opening duo, Kusal Perera and Pathum Nissanka, combining for 125 runs in 21.4 overs. Pat Cummins provided the breakthrough by dismissing Nissanka for 61 off 67 deliveries, and soon after, Perera was dismissed, bowled out for 78 off 82 balls.
Adam Zampa then played a pivotal role in intensifying Sri Lanka’s troubles, dismissing Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama with both batsmen scoring in single digits. This shift in momentum favored Australia. A brief rain delay interrupted the game, after which Australian bowlers took command. Besides Zampa, Mitchell Starc secured two wickets, and Glenn Maxwell contributed with one.
Check out the reactions of the cricket fraternity and fans to Australia’s first win of the season:
Last Updated on October 16, 2023
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