Australia put an end to losing run

Hosts claim victory in final ODI as Sri Lanka win series 2-1.

BRISBANE: Australia beat Sri Lanka by eight wickets in the third and final One-Day International. The hosts dismissed Sri Lanka for 115 before chasing down the score in just 21.4 overs for the loss of two wickets. Despite the defeat Sri Lanka won their first series in Australia 2-1.

However, it was the young duo of McKay and Starc who wrecked the Sri Lankan innings, both bowlers enjoying the bounce and movement of the pitch. Paceman Clint McKay put in a man-of-the-match performance with five for 33 off nine overs supported by newcomer Mitchell Starc’s four for 27 to rip through the Sri Lankan innings.

In reply, Australia lost the wickets of openers Shane Watson and Brad Haddin in easing to victory over the lacklustre Sri Lankans. Michael Clarke hit the winning runs in an unbeaten 50.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 8^th, 2010.