SL vs AUS [WATCH]: Pathum Nissanka loses his wicket to a rash shot against Aaron Hardie

Pathum Nissanka’s shaky start to the second and final ODI against Australia came to an abrupt end, as he was clean bowled by Aaron Hardie. The dismissal took place at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Friday, February 14.

Pathum Nissanka’s rash shot costs Sri Lanka early wicket 

Nissanka’s wicket fell on the third ball of the fifth over. Hardie delivered an angling length ball at 130kph from wide of the crease, which further jagged in slightly. Nissanka, seemingly premeditating a big shot to relieve the building pressure from dot balls, charged down the track to swing across the line. However, he was beaten on the inside edge, resulting in the ball crashing into his stumps. The right-handed batter had to make a long walk back to the pavilion for 6 after facing 20 balls.

Nissanka’s wicket was a crucial breakthrough for Australia, who are looking to bounce back after losing the first ODI of the two-match series.

Here’s the video:

First wicket to Aaron Hardie! #SLvAUS pic.twitter.com/C0qMkHJzi7

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) February 14, 2025

In the first game, Sri Lankan skipper Charith Asalanka’s century led the hosts to a 49-run victory. Australia’s batting performance left a lot to be desired, and they are eager for a turnaround ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan.

Sri Lanka, already one up in the series, aims to seal a series sweep. Their top order, including Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis, will be aiming to improve their footwork against the Australian pacers.

Also READ: Twitter reactions – Sri Lanka triumphs over Australia in a low-scoring encounter at Colombo | 1st ODI

SL vs AUS: Playing XI of both teams

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Eshan Malinga, Asitha Fernando

Australia: Matthew Short, Travis Head, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Steven Smith (c), Josh Inglis (wk), Aaron Hardie, Glenn Maxwell, Sean Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis, Adam Zampa, Tanveer Sangha

Also READ: Australia’s Michael Clarke picks his favourite team to win Champions Trophy 2025