Apologies for the obviously topical and sensationalist headline, but it is worth mentioning that our principal physio Stephen, is abroad at the moment looking after the Aussie U19 Cricket side in Colombo. The side which was name in mid December, arrived in Colombo on the 30th of December for a two week tournament against their Sri Lankan peers.
Four contracted players including Victoria and Melbourne Renegades duo Will Sutherland and Zak Evans, Tasmania’s Jarrod Freeman and New South Wales’ keeper Baxter Holt were all named in a 14-player squad for the four-match tour of the island nation.
More on the Cricket Australia Announcement here
The Head Coach and former Australian fast bowler Ryan Harris addressed the media on the eve of the series.
The Aussies drew first blood for the series with a composed and convincing win, securing the victory by chasing down Sri Lanka’s 262 with 7 wickets and 2 overs to spare. Sam Fanning was the back bone early with a sensationally well made 108 (94). He was aptly supported by a swashbuckling Ollie Davies who guided the visitors to the finish line with 50*(44) which included 4 massive sixes easily clearing the straight boundaries.
The bowlers toiled hard in typically hot and humid conditions on what appeared to be a batting friendly wicket. Zac Evans and Josh Kann both picked up two wickets whilst the spin of Jarred Freeman and Tanveer Sangha managed to snare 1 a piece.
The remaining two one-day matches will be played at P. Sara Stadium on 5th and 7th January, followed by the three-day match from 10th to 12th January at SSC Grounds.
Live scoring is available via the ESPN cricinfo website.
Good luck to the lads and Stephen for the remainder of the series. Fingers crossed our senior test team can get the job done in Sydney!
Until next time, Praxis what you preach: Prevent. Prepare. Perform
Team Praxis