Off-spinner Dilruwan Perera dismissed Marsh for 23 when the batsman defended a delivery and Kusal Mendis thrust out his hands at forward short leg to parry the ball and twisted his body backwards to complete a stunning catch.
Advertisement
India had started the year as the top-ranked side before Australia reclaimed the position following their 2-0 win over New Zealand in New Zealand.
Warner, who had batted well for his 68 with six fours and a six, was Pereras second big strike.
The time they spent at the crease was crucial as they built partnerships (highlighted by their own 211-run stand for the sixth wicket in Sri Lanka’s first innings) and ensured Australia had a tough target to chase.
The day belonged to Silva who, after scores of 4,7,5,2 and 0 in the last five innings, cover-drove an Adam Voges full toss to bring up his third test fifty in 251 balls.
As regards Sri Lanka, it has been a magnificent effort by Aneglo Mathews’ side.
Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc changed his bowling boots in between overs and several lengthy team discussions were held on the pitch, prompting Mathews to call his batsmen back in the pavilion.
Centurion Kaushal Silva said on Tuesday Sri Lanka were determined not to let Australia off the hook after they took a commanding 288-run lead in the third and final Test in Colombo.
Sri Lanka now have the chance to register their first whitewash against a major team since gaining Test status in 1981. Chandimal top-scored with 132, while de Silva, who scored his maiden Test ton finished with 129 to rescue Sri Lanka.
Australia’s clumsy batting collapse on day five of the third Test in Colombo typified their tour as Sri Lankan spinner Rangana Herath put the finishing touches on a thumping 3-0 series whitewash.
“He had a groin strain, he couldn’t run, he couldn’t jump”. He was fantastic with one leg. But once he departed the capitulation came quickly, Australia bowled out for 160, defeated by 163 runs. Credit should go to this man.
Advertisement
“We should be reasonably embarrassed by our performance in this series, and that’s OK”, he said.
