Sri Lanka’s Historic Win Down Under

Sri Lanka had never won a one day international series Down Under for 26 years. They have put the kangaroo’s plans for the Ashes into disarray by handing them a thrashing on their home soil. Aussies were desperate to knit together a winning combination for the all important Ashes but losing six international matches on a row is no where near a good grounding to face rejuvenated England. On the other hand the Sangakkara’s men are in perfect shape for the world cup as they will only improve on the sub-continental pitches.

Prior to the start of the 3-match ODI series Sri Lanka had won only 8 matches out of 40 against the Aussies Down Under. Australians were favorites to win at home despite being on a losing streak. They rested their captain and tried different combinations but the Sri Lankans came hard on them to knock them down 2-0 before the 3rd game.  Sri Lanka was in a hopeless position in the first match at MCG but Angelo Mathews had other plans. Together with enterprising Lasith Malinga he put on 132 for the ninth wicket to mark one of the outstanding recoveries of all ODIs. They eventually won by one wicket when Muralitharan flicked one past fine leg for four to start rapturous celebrations in front of stunned Aussie faces both on and off the field.

Sri Lanka came into the second match in Sydney all confident. Onus was on the Aussies to fight back and level the series. Ricky Ponting came back to lead but surprisingly Xavier Doherty was left out in favor of Nathan Hauritz. Doherty had made an impressive debut the previous match with figures of 4 for 46. In a rain shortened match Sri Lanka gave them a testing target of 244 in 39 overs which was later revised to 240 in 38 overs. Aussies were reduced to 80 for 4 in the 16th over and were left gasping for a miracle from either Hussey or White. None of the remaining batsmen could hit boundaries regularly and they were all out for 210 in the 38th over. Sri Lanka won by 29 runs through D/L method thanks to man of the match Upul Tharanga who made a composed 86.

Australian media was crying loud joined by former players in criticizing selection policy regarding the build-up to the Ashes. In particular Michael Clarke was in the firing line for his declining ability as a player and suitability as the captain-in-waiting. There were questions raised over the form of Mitchell Johnson and Nathan Hauritz. In the final match the ‘Australianism’ was at stake though the series and pride ware lost already. As predicted Aussies came hard at Lankans who were a bit complacent and could not handle the pace at the Brisbane Cricket Ground. They were bundled out for a paltry 115. Clint McKay took 5 for 35 and promising Mitchell Starc 4 for 27, best career figures for both. Aussies chased down the target in 22 overs losing just two wickets despite a sizzling spell from Dilhara Fernando. Sri Lanka took the series 2-1. Lasith Malinga was named man of the series.

Now looking back is not the way for both these teams. Sri Lanka must rejoice the historic series victory but they will will be facing tougher and better prepared teams at the world cup like India, England and South Africa. There is no doubt Lions would be one of the favorites for the world Cup.  On the other hand things are looking not so bright for Australia. Ashes plans are in tatters. Their batsmen are not in form and bowlers lack depth and confidence. Captain is under strict scrutiny and future looks bleak unless they turn the things around fast. If Australia comes out triumphed in the Ashes it will not only lift them again for the World Cup but put a halt to their downward slide as a world cricketing power for the moment.