Colombo, Feb. 14 -- Kusal Mendis' brilliant century and Dunith Wellalage's four-wicket haul powered Sri Lanka to a resounding 174-run victory over Australia in the first ODI here on Friday.
Opting to bat first, Sri Lanka posted a formidable total of 281 for four in 50 overs, powered by an excellent century from Mendis (101 off 115, 11x4s) and a steady half-century from skipper Charith Asalanka (51 off 70).
In reply, Australia faltered under pressure as Asitha Fernando (3/23) ripped through the top order before the Sri Lankan spinners tightened the noose to bowl the visitors out for a paltry 107 in 24.2 overs. Wellalage was the chief destroyer with figures of 4/29, while Wanindu Hasaranga chipped in with three wickets.
Head coach Sanath J...