2nd ODI: Madushka, Asalanka power SL with half-centuries vs Australia
What's the story
The second ODI between Sri Lanka and Australia at the R. Premadasa Stadium saw the home team post 281/4 in their allotted 50 overs.
While Kusal Mendis's century headlined the first innings, opener Nishan Madushka and skipper Charith Asalanka also made fifties.
Notably, Asalanka, who made a match-winning 127 in the series opener, recorded his second successive 70-plus score.
Here are their stats.
Madushka
Rescue after early wicket
After winning the toss, Sri Lanka opted to bat first but was dealt an early blow as Aaron Hardie sent Pathum Nissanka back for a mere six runs.
Nevertheless, Madushka and Mendis (101) toiled hard to steady their team's innings before Adam Zampa's stunning catch ended their partnership.
The duo added 98 runs before Madushka fell to pacer Ben Dwarshuis. He played an important 51-run knock.
Stats
Second ODI fifty for Madushka
Madushka was dismissed for 52 off 71 balls as he smoked four fours and a maximum.
This was his maiden fifty in the format and a maiden one against the Aussies.
With this knock, he has raced to 153 runs across three ODI innings at 52.66.
This was overall his 16th half-century in List A cricket as the tally also includes five tons.
Asalanka
Destruction from Asalanka
The Lankans were decently placed at 121/3 when Asalanka arrived.
He joined forces with centurion Mendis and the duo added 94 runs. Asalanka was positive from the outset but also played risk-free cricket.
In Janith Liyanage (32*), he got another potent partner after Mendis's departure as the duo went berserk in death overs.
Sri Lanka scored 97 runs in the last 10 overs as Asalanka returned unbeaten on 78*.
Stats
Asalanka's third 50-plus score vs Australia
Asalanka's 78* was laced with six fours and three sixes. He faced 66 balls.
With this knock, Asalanka has raced to 2,374 runs at 43.16. This was his 15th ODI fifty. He also owns four tons.
In eight matches versus Australia, he has 417 runs at 69.50.
This was his third 50-plus score against them, including two tons.
Notably, Asalanka's 127 in the series opener is also his career-best ODI score.