Half-centuries from Aaron Finch and skipper Steve Smith helped Australia pull off a tricky chase to defeat a resilient Sri lanka by three wickets in the first One-day International here on Monday.
Australia, who suffered their first series whitewash against the hosts in the three Tests, chased down 228 in 46.5 overs at the R. Premadasa Stadium to lead the five-match ODI series 1-0.
Pacers James Faulkner and Mitchell Starc, who became the fastest to reach 100 wickets in his 52nd match, also played their part with seven wickets between them after Australia elected to bowl.
Opener Finch, who scored a quickfire 56, gave Australia a brisk start despite the early wicket of David Warner, who was out for eight after a scratchy 17-ball stay at the crease.
Finch took on the Sri lankan bowlers with ease as he regularly cleared the infield to notch up seven boundaries and two sixes. Earlier half-centuries from Kusal Mendis and Dinesh Chandimal helped Sri lanka post 227 for eight in their 50 overs.