Aaron Finch, Dasun Shanaka, Australia, Sri Lanka
Aaron Finch, Dasun Shanaka. (Photo: Twitter)

Aaron Finch, Australia’s limited-overs captain, appreciated Dasun Shanaka for an “incredible knock” in the third and final T20I match.
Shanaka’s undefeated 25-ball 54 managed to help Sri Lanka defeat Australia by four wickets and stop a whitewash in Pallekele on Saturday (June 11).

Dasun Shanaka
Dasun Shanaka. Image: Sri Lanka Cricket

Shanaka stepped in as his squad was chasing a 177-run goal and were at 98/5. With Sri Lanka requiring 19 runs off Kane Richardson’s final over, the right-hander blasted to put more pressure on Australia once more.

Dasun Shanaka
Dasun Shanaka. Image: Sri Lanka Cricket.

However, Finch continued his strong form with a 29-run knock of 20 deliveries, bringing his T20I series total to 114 runs from three matches, an average of 57.00, and a strike rate of 156.16. With a 39-run knock in the previous game, experienced opener David Warner remained at the top. The visitors batted first and scored 176/5, with Steven Smith and Marcus Stoinis each scoring 30-plus runs.

‘That was an unbelievable knock by Dasun tonight’: Aaron Finch

Australia were strong contenders to win the final game, but Shanaka’s power-hitting in the final three overs prevented them from achieving their goal. Aaron Finch congratulated Shanka for his match-winning innings but was satisfied with his squad’s overall effort.
“I’m pleased with our performance overall in the series; Dasun’s knock tonight was incredible,” Aaron Finch remarked after the game.

Dasun Shanaka
Dasun Shanaka. Image: Sri Lanka Cricket

“We won’t realize it made a significant difference whether we batted first or second because the pitch slowed significantly a little towards the finish of our innings. We’re happy with our team and our choices in general.”

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The five-match ODI series between the two teams will begin on June 14 in Pallekele.

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