In a dramatic encounter at the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, leg-spinner Adam Zampa starred for Australia, claiming four wickets to help secure their first win in the tournament against Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka had set a target of 209, and despite the match being plagued by adverse weather and strong winds that disrupted play, Australia managed to chase down the total with five wickets to spare at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow.
Australia’s chase began on a shaky note, losing early wickets, including David Warner and Steve Smith. However, opener Mitchell Marsh’s aggressive 52 and wicketkeeper-batsman Josh Inglis’ well-compiled 58 steadied the innings. They formed a crucial partnership with Marnus Labuschagne (40) to guide Australia past the challenging total.
Dilshan Madushanka briefly raised hopes for Sri Lanka by claiming important wickets, but Glenn Maxwell’s quickfire 31 and the contribution of Marcus Stoinis (20) helped Australia clinch the victory.
Earlier, Sri Lanka’s openers, Pathum Nissanka (61) and Kusal Perera (78), put on an impressive 125-run stand. However, Australia’s bowlers, led by Zampa, made a comeback, bundling out Sri Lanka for 209.
Despite the weather interruptions and some thrilling moments, Australia’s collective effort ensured their first win in the tournament, while Sri Lanka suffered their third consecutive loss in the competition.