Australia have continued their domination over Sri Lanka in the ongoing five-match T20I series after the hosts registered a comprehensive victory in the fourth T20I to take the unassailable 4-0 lead on Friday.
Aussie superstar Glenn Maxwell was the star with his incredible batting display during the chase of 140 when the home team had experienced early setbacks. Apart from his match-winning performance with the bat, Maxwell also impressed one and all with splendid fielding to get rid of Sri Lankan top-order batter Kusal Mendis.
It all happened during the 11th over when the visitors were in a good position, having scored 73 runs in their first 10 overs, with both Mendis and Pathum Nissanka forming a partnership of 40 runs. However, a bullet throw by Maxwell ruined their plans.
The incident occurred on the third ball of the over when Nissanka pushed left-arm spinner Ashton Agar towards long-on. The pair decided to run for a couple, but Maxwell stormed in quickly to pick the ball and targeted the stumps with a rocket throw. Mendis did attempt a dive to save himself, but he got caught a good yard or two short.
Here is the video:
Don't take on Maxi's arm! 💪
As good as it gets from Glenn Maxwell! #AUSvSL pic.twitter.com/g7QaGekFTn
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) February 18, 2022
With the help of Nissanka (46) and Mendis (27), the tourists managed to post 139/9 in their allotted 20 overs. In reply, Australia lost their three wickets for just 49 before Maxwell and Josh Inglis teamed up to take their side out of trouble. The pair went on to stitch a crucial 71 run stand for the fourth wicket to make sure Australia got back home easily. While Inglis made 40 from 20 balls, Maxwell stayed unbeaten on 48 off 39 deliveries as Australia won the contest by six wickets.
“It was nice. Josh came out with great intent. I could play a different role. Just wanted to rotate the strike and not play too many dots. His range and clean hitting. His clarity and calmness is wonderful. He has a bright future and was part of the WC squad as well. Nice to hit the stumps and get the wicket for the team,” said Maxwell after the match.
