By Luke Voogt
Geelong has passed its first big test for international cricket, despite unusually chilly and rainy weather keeping thousands at home.
Cricket Australia boss James Sutherland said he was impressed by Geelong’s support for the game.
“Certainly the atmosphere was amazing. It has again demonstrated to us that regional centres can and should be putting their hand up to host elite cricket.”
Mr Sutherland hinted at more elite level cricket coming to Geelong.
“When you take into account that they are building a new stand, you can see there is significant potential there,” he said.
“Both teams were very happy with the facilities at Geelong, and the pitch and the size of the ground made for two excellent games.“
More than 13,500 fans saw Sri Lanka beat Australia in an amazing last-ball victory – the second in the three-game series.
Australia looked poised to win with Sri Lanka on the ropes at 7-138.
But Asela Gunaratne smashed three sixes and a four off in the second last over off Moises Henriques, who made rapid 56* in Australia’s innings.
Andrew Tye dismissed Nuwan Kalesekara off the first ball of the last over but more Gunaratne boundaries helped secure the 14 runs required for victory.
Mr Sutherland said about 16,000 people pre-bought tickets. Rain throughout the afternoon disrupted the women’s T20 game, with the temperatures plummeting below average.
“In the end we were really pleased with the crowd in Geelong. To get more than 13,500 in those conditions and on a Sunday night was actually a very good result.“
