Steve Smith once again showcased his exceptional slip-catching skills with a sharp grab to dismiss Avishka Fernando during the 1st ODI between Australia and Sri Lanka at the R. Premadasa Stadium.

Steve Smith’s sharp reflexes result in Avishka Fernando’s dismissal

Aaron Hardie struck early in his first over, dismissing Fernando for just one with a well-directed back-of-a-length delivery that extracted movement off the surface. The ball pitched around off stump and shaped away late, forcing Fernando into an indecisive push without any significant foot movement. Caught in two minds, he extended his hands away from his body, trying to feel for the ball rather than playing it with conviction. The late movement found the thick outside edge of his bat, and the ball flew quickly towards the slip cordon at a difficult height.

Smith, stationed at second slip, reacted instinctively as the ball traveled fast to his left. Instead of going hard at it, he stayed low and allowed the ball to come to him, ensuring he had control while taking the catch. His soft hands absorbed the impact, preventing the ball from popping out upon contact. The sharp reflex grab highlighted Smith’s incredible anticipation and safe hands, reinforcing his reputation as one of the best slip fielders in world cricket.

Fernando, having failed to cover the movement, could only watch in disappointment as Smith completed the dismissal with ease. The wicket left Sri Lanka struggling at 6/2, giving Australia the early advantage. Hardie’s disciplined line and ability to extract movement proved crucial, while Smith’s quick reactions ensured the opportunity was not wasted.

Here’s the video:

Now it’s Aaron Hardie who strikes in his first over ????

Avishka wafts at one and Smith with the safe hands #SLvAUS pic.twitter.com/1XBAHwyBg7

— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) February 12, 2025

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Sri Lanka struggles as Australia dominate powerplay in 1st ODI

Sri Lanka’s decision to bat first backfired as Australia’s disciplined bowling attack made early inroads, leaving the hosts reeling at 39/4 at the end of the first powerplay. Spencer Johnson set the tone with a sharp delivery that saw Pathum Nissanka edge behind in the very first over. Hardie then capitalized on the early movement, dismissing Fernando cheaply as Smith took a sharp catch at slip.

Kusal Mendis looked promising, striking four boundaries, but Hardie’s consistent line forced an error, and he was caught by Matthew Short. Kamindu Mendis followed soon after, falling to Jake Fraser-McGurk’s catch off Johnson’s bowling. With Charith Asalanka and Janith Liyanage left to rebuild, Sri Lanka ended the powerplay in deep trouble at 39/4, struggling against Australia’s relentless attack.

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