During the first ODI versus Sri Lanka at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Australian captain Steve Smith once again showed off his skill on the pitch by dismissing Dunith Wellalage with an incredible one-handed catch.
Charith Asalanka, the captain of Sri Lanka, decided to bat first after winning the toss. But the decision didn’t work out because the Australian bowlers hit early and put a lot of pressure on the hosts. Asalanka put out a valiant attempt, but Sri Lanka kept losing wickets. In the 26th over, Dunith Wellalage, who had shown some promise, fell prey to Smith’s brilliant fielding.
Wellalage tried to compete after Matthew Short bowled a good-length delivery on the off-stump. The ball sailed in the direction of the slip cordon after taking a heavy outside edge.
Fans were in full shock as Steve Smith instinctively reacted to it by diving to his right and clutching a spectacular one-handed catch.
He once again shown why he is regarded as one of the top fielders in cricket with his amazing reflexes and deft hands. In recognition of Smith’s extraordinary athleticism, the audience erupted in cheers.
Watch the video below:
Steve Smith has DONE IT AGAIN.
He takes a beauty at slip!#SLvAUS pic.twitter.com/kUpTdKOEMI
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) February 12, 2025
The crucial partnership between Asalanka and Wellalage was shattered by Smith’s incredible dive, significantly undermining Sri Lanka’s chances of establishing a challenging and competitive score. Two important wickets were lost in the first two overs, giving the hosts a bad start to the game.
Sri Lanka was in serious trouble as the batting went on, scoring 142/8 in the 36th over. Asalanka, who continued to battle with Eshan Malinga at the crease, was their only chance to recover a respectable score. Sri Lanka sorely needed a strong partnership to stay in the game, as Australia was firmly in charge.
In addition to enhancing his stellar fielding record, Smith’s incredible effort solidified Australia’s superiority in the game.
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