Having lost the first ODI, Sri Lanka bounced back in the second game by dealing a shock loss to Australia. The hosts won the match by 26 runs via the D/L method, leveling the series 1-1 with 3 games to go.

The match seemed to be in the visitors favor after restricting the home side to 220/5. However, a strong combined bowling effort from Sri Lanka, saw the Aussies get bowled out for 189 at the Pallekele International Stadium.