ICC World Cup 2023: Australia notches its maiden win

Australia ended their two-game losing streak by clinching a World Cup 2023 victory against Sri Lanka tonight. In this match, Australia triumphed with a five-wicket win. Sri Lanka initially showed dominance but soon faltered and failed to recover by the end of the game.

Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to bat first. Opening batsmen Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera began with a remarkable partnership, amassing 125 runs. However, Nissanka (61) was dismissed by Cummins after reaching a half-century, and Cummins later claimed Perera's (78) wicket. After these two key dismissals, the Sri Lankan batting order collapsed rapidly, going from 157/2 to an all-out total of 209. Adam Zampa was the standout bowler for Australia, taking four wickets (4/47), while Mitchell Starc (2/43) and Pat Cummins (2/32) both secured two wickets each.

Australia faced some early setbacks while chasing the relatively modest target. Openers David Warner and Steve Smith were both dismissed in the third over. Later, Mitchell Marsh (52) and Marnus Labuschagne (40) established a 57-run partnership that steered Australia towards victory. Marsh completed a half-century before getting out. Subsequently, Josh Inglis (58) contributed with a 77-run partnership alongside Labuschagne. It became evident that Australia would secure the win. After their dismissals, Glenn Maxwell (31*) and Marcus Stoinis (20*) guided their team to victory, reaching a total of 215/2 in 35.2 overs. The only bright spot in the Sri Lankan bowling lineup was Dishan Madushanka, who took three wickets (3/38).

Australia's next match will be against Pakistan on October 20, while Sri Lanka will face the Netherlands in their upcoming fixture on October 21.

Scorecard:

Sri Lanka: 209/10 (43.3 overs)

Australia: 215/5 (35.2 overs)