Image: Steve Smith took a breathtaking one-handed stunner at slip to dismiss Wellalage / © Telegraph India
The first ODI between Sri Lanka and Australia saw the hosts struggle after opting to bat first in Colombo. Sri Lanka lost wickets at regular intervals, slipping to 55/5 inside 15 overs. Charith Asalanka (50*) and Dunith Wellalage (30) tried to stabilize the innings with a 50-run stand, but Australia’s bowlers kept the pressure on.
The highlight of the match came in the 26th over when Steve Smith took a breathtaking one-handed stunner at slip to dismiss Wellalage. Matthew Short delivered a sharp off-break, and Wellalage edged it low to Smith, who reacted instantly, diving to his right and grabbing the ball with one hand. The stunning effort left the Sri Lankan camp in shock. With Sri Lanka at 133/7 after 30.1 overs, Australia remained in firm control. Spencer Johnson and Aaron Hardie were the pick of the bowlers, taking two wickets each.