Australia beat Sri Lanka by 64 Runs

Australia beat Sri Lanka in 32^nd match of ICC Cricket World Cup 2015. Australia won the toss and decided to bat first and out a strong total of 376 in 50 overs. Australian Inning was powered by Maxwell’s first ODI century of which came on just 51 balls.

Michel Clarke contributed with 68 and Steven Smith added 72 runs. Maxwell (102) and Shane Watson (67) paired for 160 runs for 5^th wicket partnership.

#AUS WIN! It has been a brave chase by #SL but Australia deserve to take out this epic clash by 64 runs! #AUSvSL pic.twitter.com/bnOrpszU05
— Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) March 8, 2015

David Warner was first to go on 19, while Finch also left for pavilion on 41 runs. Clarke was out on 175 followed by wicket of Smith on 177. Maxwell was 5^th to returned to pavilion and was bowled by Perera soon after scoring his first ODI century. Maxwell also registered his name on second spot by scoring 2^nd Fastest Century of ICC Cricket World Cup History.

In response, Sri Lanka lost Thirmanne (1) on 5, however Dilshan and Sangakkara added 130 runs for 2^nd Wicket. The pair maintained the run rate by scoring 130 runs on 119 balls. At this time, Sri Lanka was required another 241 runs on 171 balls with more than 8 runs an over.

Dilshan scored 62 runs, however rest of Sri Lankan batsmen couldn’t safe their wickets, regular fall of wickets made it difficult for Sri Lanka to chase target.

Sangakkara scored century, while Chandimal’s quick fire of 52 on 24 balls was not enough to chase the tons of runs. Chandimal was retired hurt on 52. Faulkner took 3 wickets, Starc and Johnson shared 2 wickets each.

Jaywardne was run out on the throw of Clarke, while Shane Watson also picked up a wicket as well. In the end, Sri Lankan team was all out on 312 in 46.2 overs and lost the match by 64 runs.

Maxwell was named Player of the Match for his 2^nd fastest century in Cricket World Cup Matches.