Aussies off the mark in World Cup

Australia finally secured their first win of the World Cup, but only after surviving some nervy moments against Sri Lanka.

The five-time champions, who lost to India and South Africa in their opening two matches, were in another difficult situation when Sri Lanka reached 125-0.

But Sri Lanka fell apart, losing all 10 wickets for 84 runs to be bundled out for 209.

Even when faced with a modest target, Australia were 24-2, and had to be guided from trouble by maiden World Cup half-centuries from Mitchell Marsh and Josh Inglis, who made 52 and 58 respectively.

Pyrotechnics were added by Glenn Maxwell’s 31 not out from 21 balls, and Marcus Stoinis’ unbeaten 20 from just 10, sealing Australia’s victory with five wickets and almost 15 overs in hand.

The fluctuations of the contest were matched by drama off the field in Lucknow, where high winds dislodged signs from the roof.

Falling debris dropped on to the pitch and seats, forcing spectators to the sheltered area at the back of the stands. The International Cricket Council said no one was hurt and the sparse crowd was able to move back closer to the field when the wind calmed.

Australia are now only two points off the top four places in the group table and next meet Pakistan in Bangalore on Friday. That match, along with contests against New Zealand and England, will go a long way to deciding their progress.

Sri Lanka, so far the only team in the competition to have suffered three defeats, play the Netherlands in Lucknow on Saturday, knowing that another loss would probably send them out.
(BBC)