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Salty Sri Lanka's angry snub after big loss to Australia

Sri Lanka’s anger at officials over perceived favouritism has taken a dramatic twist after their thumping World Cup defeat to Australia.

The Sri Lankans are set to be fined by the ICC after refusing to attend conduct a compulsory post-match media conference following their 87-run loss to Australia.

A swashbuckling knock of 153 runs from skipper Aaron Finch and a brutal four-wicket haul from Mitchell Starc saw the Aussies seal a comfortable victory.

Aaron Finch led Australia to victory with a big ton. Pic: Getty
Aaron Finch led Australia to victory with a big ton. Pic: Getty

However, Sri Lanka’s big loss at The Oval came 24 hours after they lodged an official complaint about what they claim is inferior treatment compared to other nations.

Team officials refused to open the door to ICC officials after the match in a move that is certain to infuriate cricket's governing body.

Sri Lanka team manager Ashantha de Mel claimed earlier this week some of the hotels the team have stayed at have lacked a swimming pool and the bus that had been ferrying them around the UK was too cramped.

De Mel was also unhappy about the pitch that was being prepared at The Oval, hinting that it was less batting friendly than the one that was prepared for India's win over Australia last Sunday.

The claim was vehemently denied by the ICC who said they employ and independent body to work with local curators to prepare the pitches.

Sri Lanka refused to conduct their media conference after the loss to Australia. Pic: Getty
Sri Lanka refused to conduct their media conference after the loss to Australia. Pic: Getty

Australia captain FInch, who plays county cricket at The Oval for Surrey praised the pitch and praised the work of the curators who have battled against rain in the English capital all week.

"I thought the pitch played beautifully today," Finch said.

"I thought with how dry it was it might spin more, but it played beautifully all day.

"If you play enough here you know that with grass it keeps pace and carry on the wicket.

"They actually play a lot better than they look at times. So credit to the groundsman, especially given just how much rain there has been in London this week.

"To produce a beautiful wicket like that with as limited preparation is a great effort."