Cameron White and Australia must lift their game to contain Dilshan
and co in the second Twenty20 international against Sri Lanka but they were
well beaten and the hosts may be the bet to win the series today.
Dilshan was terrific in being the architect of the Aussies
downfall, using his famed Scoop brilliantly on his way to an unbeaten 104 as
the hosts posted 3-198 in Kandy. Australia made 163 in reply but were lucky to
do so, with a number of free runs being given away when it was clear that the
game was over while the counter-attacking of Mitchell Johnson and Steve O'Keefe
spared Australia from an even heavier defeat, so a margin of 35 runs is
flattering though.
Sri Lanka might well not have it so easy, with the Australians
sure to improve physically for that first outing, although it may not be
enough. The Sri Lankans were canny in bowling plenty of spin on a surface that
offered turn in abundance, with the likes of Shaun Marsh and David Hussey in
particular looking out of sorts against the turn.
While Australia had the far better pace attack with Mitchell
Johnson and Brett Lee, they never really took a succession of wickets (three
only) and the latter’s inconsistency was widely evident when he was unable to
find consistent line or length.
Admittedly Shaun White didn’t go much for his spin, Spinners
Steve O'Keefe and Steve Smith only employed for three and two overs respectively,
but both have a lot to prove at this level to batsmen who are accustomed to the
best in the world throwing what they’ve got at them.
All things considered even on the same terms Sri Lanka may
well have the Australians covered again and look worth backing to wrap up the
series.
Advice
1 pt Sri Lanka (10/11 general)
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