'Sad they are not part of the Champions Trophy': Fans react as Sri Lanka stuns Australia in 1st ODI

In the first game of the 2-match ODI series between Sri Lanka and Australia, the visitors suffered a 49-run defeat at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka opted to bat first, but his side faced an early collapse, slipping to 55/5 and later 135/8. However, a remarkable fightback saw them clinch a 49-run victory.

Asalanka led from the front, capitalizing on a fatigued Australian attack as he played a measured innings before unleashing a flurry of aggressive shots. He went on to score a brilliant 127 off 126 balls during a crucial ninth-wicket stand of 79 runs with Eshan Malinga！who remained unbeaten on 1 off 26 balls. This partnership helped Sri Lanka post a total of 214 all out.

Australia falters in the chase

The Aussies faced a stiffer chase than expected, and Sri Lankan bowlers quickly took control. Asitha Fernando struck early to remove both openers - Matthew Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk - boosting the hosts' confidence. Maheesh Theekshana stepped up with a four-wicket haul and was well-supported by Dunith Wellalage. Theekshana's highlight moment came when he dismissed Steve Smith on the first ball.

Poor shot selection further hurt Australia, and despite a solid effort from Alex Carey (41 off 38), his dismissal marked the turning point in Sri Lanka's favour. Australia's inability to chase down 214 proved to be disappointing as with this win, Sri Lanka took a 1-0 lead in the series.

Fans react

Social media was flooded with reactions, with many praising Sri Lanka's spirited performance under coach Sanath Jayasuriya. However, fans also expressed disappointment that the team failed to qualify for the 2025 Champions Trophy.

One fan wrote, "Sri Lanka defeated Australia in the first ODI！defended just 214 runs! What a performance at home, sadly they won't be part of the Champions Trophy."

SRI LANKA DEFEATED AUSTRALIA IN THE FIRST ODI ?

- Lanka defended just 214 runs, What a performance at home, sadly they are not part of the Champions Trophy. pic.twitter.com/YSSWzqEs44

！ Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 12, 2025

Another added, "Incredible effort from Sri Lanka to defend 214! A brilliant display at home."

SRI LANKA STUN AUSTRALIA IN THE 1ST ODI! ?

Defended a low total of 214 with a brilliant effort at home.

A performance to remember, but unfortunate they won't be in the Champions Trophy. #SLvAUS pic.twitter.com/gTwyYwO00N

！ Sports World ??. (@ShamimSports) February 12, 2025

Teams:

Australia (Playing XI): Matthew Short, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Steven Smith(c), Marnus Labuschagne, Cooper Connolly, Alex Carey(w), Aaron Hardie, Sean Abbott, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson

Sri Lanka (Playing XI): Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis(w), Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka(c), Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Eshan Malinga, Asitha Fernando

For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.