The second morning of the crucial final Test between Sri Lanka and Australia at Galle unfolded as a captivating contest, showcasing resilience from the hosts and a spirited fightback with the ball. Sri Lanka, resuming their innings at a precarious 229/9, managed to add a valuable 28 runs to their total, thanks largely to the unwavering determination of Kusal Mendis. Mendis, who played a captain’s knock, deservedly reached a high score. He found a willing partner in last man Lahiru Kumara, who hung around to frustrate the Australian bowlers. However, Kumara’s resistance was finally broken by Matthew Kuhneman, who claimed his third wicket of the innings, bringing Sri Lanka’s innings to a close at 257.
Australia’s response began much like their first innings in the previous Test, with Travis Head launching an aggressive attack. However, his quickfire 21 off just 22 balls was short-lived, as Sri Lanka’s spinners quickly found their rhythm. Head’s adventurous approach ultimately led to his dismissal, as he misjudged a flighted delivery and edged it to first slip.
Sri Lanka’s spinners continued to apply pressure, and their efforts were soon rewarded with the wicket of Marnus Labuschagne. Labuschagne’s struggles continued as he was trapped LBW by a sharp-turning delivery. The on-field decision initially went against the bowler, but a successful review, prompted by the bowler himself, confirmed the dismissal.
With Australia reeling at 37/2, Sri Lanka looked poised to make further inroads. However, the experienced duo of Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith once again demonstrated their class and resilience. They forged an unbeaten 48-run partnership, stabilizing the innings and preventing any further damage. Both batsmen looked comfortable against the spin, handling the varied attack with composure and control.
At the close of play on the second day, Australia trailed Sri Lanka by 172 runs, with eight wickets still in hand. While Sri Lanka’s spinners had provided a glimmer of hope with their early wickets, the experienced pair of Khawaja and Smith had steadied the ship for Australia. The match hangs in the balance, promising an intriguing contest in the days to come. Sri Lanka’s hopes rest on their spinners’ ability to break the Khawaja-Smith partnership and exploit any further vulnerabilities in the Australian batting lineup. Australia, on the other hand, will look to build on their solid foundation and establish a strong lead.
