Australia end series with a win to avoid whitewash

22 February 2017 01:10

Australia beat Sri Lanka by 41 runs in the final Twenty20 International at the Adelaide Oval to avoid a series whitewash.

Sri Lanka had already secured victory in the three-match contest when an unbeaten 84 from Asela Gunaratne guided them to a dramatic final-ball victory in Geelong.

In this final meeting, the tourists were set a target of 188 following half-centuries from Australian opener Michael Klinger, who hit 62, and captain Aaron Finch, who made 53.

Although Dilshan Munaweera looked to push on with 37 from 25 balls, there was little support further down the order, as Gunaratne was trapped leg before by Adam Zampa for only four.

After 10 overs, S ri Lanka had slumped to 76 for four.

Milinda Siriwardana added 35 before he was caught and bowled by James Faulkner, which all but ended the tourists' threat as they were bowled out for 146 in 18 overs.

Recalled legspinner Zampa collected three for 25 from his four overs, while Faulkner took three for 20 from three overs.

Earlier, Australia's opening pair put on 79 for the opening wicket, with Ben Dunk adding a rapid 28 and Travis Head making 30 to help push the hosts towards a competitive target.

Australia finished on 187 for six after Sri Lanka had rallied to claim four batsmen for just five runs.

Source: PA