‘The Sri Lankan people are wonderful’ – Aaron Finch lauds the hosts

There are some things that transcend sport and these eight limited-overs matches between Sri Lanka and Australia could easily be classified in that column.

Despite the recent troublesome times in the country, the Sri Lanka team and fans showed the world their extraordinary spirit.

The hosts won the ODI series 3-2 - their first at home against Australia in 30 years - and equally impressive was the support and love from the Sri Lankan supporters which left a mark on the visiting team.

Aaron Finch, captain of the tourists in their first tour of the country since 2016, echoed that sentiment and was full of appreciation for what he and his team experienced.

"We're very grateful that we've been able to tour here. We know the difficulties that Sri Lanka has faced in recent times," said Finch.

"Hopefully over these eight white-ball games we've been able to provide some joy to people in the country."

During the fifth and final ODI on Friday, thousands of locals donned Australia’s traditional colors to pay tribute to the tourists, turning the R. Premadasa Stadium into a sea of yellow.

"It was outstanding, the Sri Lankan people are wonderful people," Finch added.

"The support that they provide is second to none. They are great cricket supporters, it's not just constant noise, they ride the emotions of the game.

"When Sri Lanka are up and about, that's as loud as anywhere you'll visit in the world."

In a video shared by cricket.com.au, Australia all-rounder Glenn Maxwell said, “That was pretty extraordinary. I was just saying to the boys that was one of the most special feelings. Being able to walk around the ground and have a foreign country cheer for you.

“A lot of times when Australia tours we are generally the enemy and there's not too many Australian fans in the stands. But to have the support and fans that are here at the moment is truly extraordinary.

“Everyone's wearing yellow. They've got all the Australian flags all over the place. It's extremely special and it's a credit to everyone that's been able to get out here. It's been such a tough time obviously for the locals. For them to come out and support us, hopefully, both teams can entertain them and they've had a really good time during the one-day series.”

The visitors continue their tour with two Tests coming up with both Sri Lanka and Australia battling it out for crucial ICC World Test Championship points.

Watch the upcoming Sri Lanka-Australia Test series on http://ICC.tv (in select regions)

Fixtures:

29 June - 3 July: First Test, Galle
8-12 July: Second Test, Galle