Ponting puts past behind him to sink Sri Lanka

Ricky Ponting made a remarkable comeback from disgrace when he won the man of the match award as Australia beat Sri Lanka by 45 runs in their tri-series match at the WACA ground yesterday.

The result guaranteed the best-of-three finals will be between Australia and England, starting on February 10th.

Replying to Australia's 274 for seven, Sri Lanka were all out for 229 off 46.3 overs.

Ponting, in his first match back from a three-match suspension incurred for his part in a drunken brawl in a Sydney night-club, was the hero for Australia.

After making a polished 39, he effected a brilliant run-out, took a classic catch at mid-wicket and claimed one for 41 from his 10 overs.

Ponting was justifiably satisfied with his game, although surprised at being asked by Warne to bowl his full complement of overs.

"I didn't even expect to bowl at all and to get 10 (overs) was a little bit of a shock," Ponting said.

"They came out all right though and I got a few in the right area, so I'm pretty pleased."

Warne said the recent events surrounding Ponting had been a contributing factor in his decision to give the young Tasmanian so many overs.

"I'd thought I'd go to Ricky to get him back in the game," Warne said. "We had all missed him."

Sri Lanka's victory bid received a major setback in the 13th over when opener Sanath Jayasuriya had to retire hurt after scoring 50 from 49 balls when he was hit a sickening blow on the right arm by Brendon Julian.

Sri Lankan officials confirmed afterwards that Jayasuriya had broken a bone in his arm and could be sidelined for up to two months.

His premature departure was a blow for Sri Lanka after he had scored eight fours and one massive six in characteristic style.

Earlier, a brilliant unbeaten 72 (65 balls) by Michael Bevan and brisk innings by Damien Martyn (48) and Adam Gilchrist (47) helped Australia post a formidable total.

Bevan struck only four boundaries, but his placement and running between wickets was full of precision.

However, he spent only a few overs in the field after suffering slight hip injury.