Picture Credit: Twitter
Sri Lanka registered a stunning 3-2 series win against Australia in a five-match ODI series. After losing the first game, the hosts bounced back in style as they took an unassailable 3-1 lead after the 4th match. However, Australia ended the white-ball series on a positive note as they won the fifth and final ODI by 4 wickets on Friday at R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo.
While Australia delivered a dominating performance in the three-match T20I series, Sri Lanka played courageous cricket in the ODIs as they ended up surprising the visitors. The series was more than a cricket contest for the spectators as the nation is in the middle of a severe economic crisis.
Amidst everything, the cricket contest managed to bring much-needed smiles to the faces of the people in the cricket-crazy island nation. Sri Lankan cricket fans who gathered at R. Premadasa Stadium to witness the fifth and final ODI between both the teams didn't forget to thank the visitors for touring the nation and making the series a successful one.
The crowd which came in huge numbers throughout the series adapted unique ways to express their gratitude towards the Aaron Finch-led side. While few held the banners of 'Thank You Australia," many donned yellow jersey to express their admiration for the visitors. The images of the Sri Lankan crowd instantly went viral on social media as ICC shared several snippets from the stadium on their official Twitter handle.
Notably, the victory was Sri Lanka's first in a home bilateral ODI series over the Aussies, since 1992. The young team led by Dasun Shanaka came up with fighting performances to beat a strong Australian side. Speaking of the 5th ODI, Australian bowlers shone on the day as they restricted the hosts at 160 in 43.1 overs. In response, wicket-keeper batter Alex Carey (45 off 65) and Marnus Labuschagne (31 off 58) played fine knocks to ensure victory for their side.
Both the sides will now face each other in a two-Test match series, starting on 29th June at Galle International Stadium, Galle.