Charith Asalanka played a pivotal role in leading Sri Lanka to an impressive 49-run win over Australia in the first ODI on Wednesday. He delivered a stellar performance under pressure, and the bowlers followed up with a brilliant display that sent the reigning world champions crashing.

With a target of just 215 to defend, Sri Lanka's bowlers went all out, dismissing Australia for a mere 165 in just 34 overs. Maheesh Theekshana was the standout performer with figures of 4-40, while Asitha Fernando set the stage early on by taking crucial wickets, preventing the Australians from finding their rhythm.

Asalanka, who had already made a significant impact with the bat, also contributed with the ball by taking out Alex Carey, which further dashed Australia’s chances of a comeback.

Sri Lanka had a rough start, finding themselves in a dire situation at 55/5 and later at 133-8, struggling against Australia’s fierce pace attack. However, Asalanka held his ground, scoring a brilliant 127 runs, featuring 14 fours and five sixes.

His determination shone through as he guided the lower order, forming a record ninth-wicket partnership of 79 runs with Eshan Malinga, who managed just one run off 26 balls.

Asalanka's comeback came to an end when he was outsmarted by a cleverly disguised slower ball from Sean Abbott (3/61), but he had already set Sri Lanka up with a competitive score.

Australia's innings never really took off. Asitha Fernando quickly took out both openers, and then the spinners took over. Dunith Wellalage made an instant impact by getting Smith out with his very first ball.

With Glenn Maxwell and Travis Head resting for the Champions Trophy, Australia found it tough to generate any real power in the middle order.

After Sri Lanka's impressive victory, fans on X voiced their frustration about the team missing out on the upcoming Champions Trophy. Sri Lanka didn't make the cut for the 8-team tournament, while Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh from Asia secured their spots.

Check out X's reaction to Sri Lanka's victory:

Sri Lanka might not have made it to the Champions Trophy, but they definitely showed they can hold their own against top teams. Just last year, they took down India 2-0 in a three-match series on their home turf, with one of the games ending in a tie.

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