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[Watch] Australia Discover Their 'New-Ball Weapon' As Hardie's Jaffa Jolts Nissanka

Soumyajit Dutta

Aaron Hardie baffles Pathum Nissanka [Source: @7Cricket/X.com]Aaron Hardie baffles Pathum Nissanka [Source: @7Cricket/X.com]

The second ODI between Australia and Sri Lanka in 2025 served up an early contender for the ball of the series as Aaron Hardie’s magical delivery left Pathum Nissanka stunned and announced the rise of Australia’s latest pace-bowling gem. Played in Colombo, the match carries added significance as both teams fine-tune their combinations ahead of the Champions Trophy. 

With Australia’s first-choice seamers sidelined for the Champions Trophy, the 26-year-old Aaron Hardie has emerged as an unlikely but potent weapon. Hardie, better known for his all-round credentials, has seamlessly transitioned into a new-ball role. Against Sri Lanka, his ability to exploit early movement and outthink batters showcased why Australia’s selectors are banking on him to fill the void. 

Hardie Strikes Early To Send Back Nissanka

It was the sixth over of Sri Lanka’s innings, and Nissanka looked to stamp his authority. Hardie, however, had other ideas. Aaron delivered a good-length ball angling across the fifth stump line before jagging back sharply. 

Nissanka, lured into an ambitious charge down the track, aimed to heave it into the leg side. But the late inward movement outfoxed him completely, sneaking past his inside edge and clattering the top of off stump. 

The sound of timber echoed as Nissanka froze mid-stride, his aggressive intent undone by Hardie’s precision. Nissanka left the field with just a single-digit score of 6 runs.

Sri Lanka Continues Fight Against Adamant Aussies

At the time of writing, Sri Lanka stands at 82/1 after 19 overs, rebuilding steadily after Hardie’s early strike. Nishan Madushka and Kusal Mendis navigated a tricky phase post-Nissanka’s exit, stitching a steady partnership. 

Australia’s attack, led by Hardie and supported by Sean Abbott’s frugal overs kept the scoring in check. With Sri Lanka opting to bat first, the game hangs in balance as the hosts aim to put up a big total and seal the series win.