SLM vs AUSM Highlights | Sri Lanka Masters Clinch Thrilling Win Over Australia Masters in International Masters League T20 2025 Sri Lanka Masters vs Australia Masters

Sri Lanka Masters Edge Past Australia Masters in a Thrilling 3-Wicket Win

Upul Tharanga’s Century Sets the Stage for a Sensational Chase

The International Masters League T20 2025 witnessed one of its most exhilarating encounters as Sri Lanka Masters pulled off a breathtaking 3-wicket victory over Australia Masters at the BCA Stadium, Vadodara. Chasing a formidable target of 218, Sri Lanka Masters rode on a scintillating century from Upul Tharanga (102 off 48 balls) and a match-winning contribution from Jeevan Mendis (74 off 10 balls)* to clinch the thriller with just four balls to spare.

Australia Masters Post a Mammoth Total

Opting to bat first, Australia Masters made full use of the batting-friendly conditions, piling up a massive 217/4 in their allotted 20 overs. The top-order fired with intent, led by an explosive knock from Shaun Marsh (77 off 49 balls) and a blistering innings from Ben Dunk (56 off 29 balls). Their partnership laid a solid foundation, pushing Australia towards a dominant total.

Nathan Reardon (19)* and Ben Cutting (19)* provided the finishing touch, adding crucial runs in the final overs. Despite the big total, Sri Lanka’s bowlers managed to pull things back slightly, with Dhammika Prasad (1/45) and Chaturanga de Silva (1/46) being the pick of the attack.

Sri Lanka Masters’ Chase: A Mix of Fireworks and Nerves

In reply, Sri Lanka Masters got off to a solid but cautious start as Kumar Sangakkara (2 off 5 balls) fell early to Ben Hilfenhaus. However, the innings soon picked up pace with Upul Tharanga launching a brutal assault on the Australian bowlers. His masterful 102 off just 48 balls, laced with 8 fours and 6 sixes, turned the tide in Sri Lanka’s favor.

Despite Tharanga’s heroics, the chase became tricky after a mini-collapse. Lahiru Thirimanne (53 off 47 balls) provided stability before falling to Ben Laughlin. Wickets fell at crucial intervals, putting the pressure back on Sri Lanka.

Jeevan Mendis Steals the Show in the Final Overs

Just when the game seemed to be slipping away, Jeevan Mendis played the innings of a lifetime. With Sri Lanka needing 44 off 18 balls, Mendis showcased incredible hitting prowess, smashing 4 sixes in the final two overs. His breathtaking 74 off just 10 balls* turned the match around in dramatic fashion, sealing a sensational victory for Sri Lanka Masters.

With just four balls remaining, Sri Lanka Masters reached 222/7, marking an unforgettable finish in the International Masters League T20.

Key Takeaways from the Match

• Upul Tharanga’s Dominance: A flawless century that laid the foundation for Sri Lanka’s chase.

• Jeevan Mendis’ Brilliance: His unbeaten cameo proved to be the game-changer.

• Shaun Marsh’s Classy Knock: His 77 set up a strong total for Australia.

• Ben Laughlin’s Impact: Australia’s most effective bowler, taking crucial wickets at key moments.

What’s Next

Sri Lanka Masters’ victory propels them further up the points table in the International Masters League T20 2025. With the competition heating up, both teams will look to fine-tune their performances heading into their next fixtures.

Can Australia Masters bounce back? Will Sri Lanka Masters continue their winning momentum? Stay tuned as the tournament unfolds!