Sri Lanka probably could have done without the weather stepping in to aid Australia in a pretty tight opening encounter. Nonetheless, the islanders will take confidence from that performance and will want to level the series in Kandy.
Australia were in danger when the rain came down but the break and DLS adjustment aided them in taking a 1-0 series lead.
Sri Lanka vs Australia | 16 June 2022 | Pallekelle International Cricket Stadium, Kandy | 11:00
To Win Match
Sri Lanka 51/20 | Tie 25/1 | Australia 3/10
Sri Lanka
For Sri Lanka there is much hope that the opening duo of Danushka Gunathilaka and Pathum Nissanka will bear fruit having started the series with a hundred partnership.
Kusal Mendis gives solidity to the Sri Lanka middle order but they have struggled to maintain their intent across 50 overs.
Wanindu Hasaranga continues to prove that he must be considered among the best white-ball allrounders in the world right now.
Sri Lanka need to resolve their new ball issues if they are to compete with the top teams and it is unclear if Dushmantha Chameera is the man for the job.
Australia
Australia did appear to suffer from being a little too casual in the opening ODI but got home in the end.
Glenn Maxwell’s explosive finishing pulled them out of the fire in Kandy but it will be interesting to see if they cope with pressure well if asked to chase again.
Jhye Richardson has struggled to find his lengths in Sri Lanka and has been a target for the home side to go after.
Ashton Agar has led the attack well with the quicks struggling to perform the containment role.
Verdict: Australia 3/10
Australia are on a role and should triumph again. There is plenty of rain around Kandy this week so expect DLS to play a role if we do get a result. With this in mind, maybe look at backing A Hundred to be Scored in the Match (NO) at 8/10.
