Australia’s batting fails again as Sri Lanka wins ODI series

Australia’s batting lineup faltered once again as the world No.2 side suffered a crushing 174-run loss to Sri Lanka in the second One Day International (ODI) in Colombo on Friday.

The result handed Sri Lanka a 2-0 series victory, with Australia unable to replicate their Test series success earlier in the tour.

Despite losing the opening ODI by 49 runs, Australia entered the match as favorites at most cricket betting sites.

However, their chase of 282 unraveled in spectacular fashion, leading to an embarrassing collapse.

Sri Lanka, electing to bat first, had an early setback with Pathum Nissanka (6) dismissed cheaply.

However, a steady 98-run partnership between Nishan Madushka (51) and Kusal Mendis (101) steadied the innings.

Mendis’ brilliant century set the stage for Charith Asalanka (78*) and Janith Liyanage (32*) to finish strong, guiding Sri Lanka to 4/281 on a pitch that slightly shifted live betting odds in their favor at the innings break.

Australia’s chase started cautiously with openers Matthew Short (3) and Travis Head (19) navigating the first two overs.

However, the wickets began to tumble rapidly.

Short fell in the third over, followed by Jake Fraser-McGurk (9) and Head in quick succession, leaving Australia in trouble at 3/30.

A brief fightback from Steve Smith (29) and Josh Inglis (22) saw them add 46 runs, but Inglis’ dismissal triggered a dramatic collapse.

Australia lost five wickets for just seven runs, crumbling from 3/79 to 8/86.

The final seven wickets fell for just 21 runs, with Australia bowled out for a dismal 107 in only 24.2 overs.

Despite the heavy defeat, Australia remains a strong contender for the upcoming Champions Trophy.

According to leading online sportsbooks, they currently sit at $5.50 to win their third title, second in the betting markets behind tournament favorites India ($2.62).