Australia Dominates Sri Lanka in Galle Test
Australia is on the brink of a commanding victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test of their bilateral series at Galle. The visitors posted a massive total of 654/6 declared, leaving Sri Lanka struggling to keep up. As of Day 4, Sri Lanka trails by over 400 runs in their second innings, with their batting lineup under immense pressure.
Amid Australia’s dominant performance, Nathan Lyon made history by surpassing Shane Warne’s record for the most Test wickets taken by an Australian in Sri Lanka. His brilliant spell, combined with Matt Kuhnemann’s five-wicket haul, has pushed Australia closer to a comprehensive win.
Australia’s Mammoth First Innings Total
Usman Khawaja Leads from the Front
Australia’s batting lineup showcased an extraordinary performance in the first innings. Usman Khawaja played a career-defining knock of 232 runs, facing 352 balls, and striking 16 fours and one six. His disciplined approach anchored the Australian innings and set the foundation for a massive total.
Key Contributions from Smith, Head, and Inglis
- Steven Smith played a crucial role, scoring a patient 141 runs off 251 balls. His composed innings kept Sri Lanka on the back foot.
- Travis Head delivered an aggressive knock of 57 off 40 balls, keeping the momentum alive.
- Josh Inglis added a quick 102 off 94 balls, accelerating the innings with a strike rate of 108.51. His ability to counterattack left Sri Lanka with no respite.
With their top-order and middle-order firing in unison, Australia reached an imposing 654/6 before declaring their innings.
Sri Lanka’s Struggles with the Bat
First Innings Collapse: Sri Lanka Bowled Out for 165
Sri Lanka had no answers to Australia’s bowling attack and was bowled out for just 165 runs. Dinesh Chandimal (72) was the only notable performer, but his resistance was cut short when Nathan Lyon dismissed him.
- Matt Kuhnemann was the wrecker-in-chief, claiming a brilliant 5-wicket haul (5-63).
- Nathan Lyon chipped in with 3 wickets, adding to his tally of Test scalps in Sri Lanka.
Follow-On: Sri Lanka in Deep Trouble
After securing a 489-run lead, Australia enforced the follow-on for the sixth time since 2010.
- Mitchell Starc struck early, removing Sri Lanka’s top-order batters.
- Todd Murphy and Nathan Lyon maintained relentless pressure.
- By the second session on Day 4, Sri Lanka was 75/3, still trailing by 414 runs.
With their backs against the wall, Sri Lanka faces a near-impossible task to save the match.
Nathan Lyon’s Record-Breaking Feat
Surpasses Shane Warne’s Record
Nathan Lyon etched his name in history by surpassing Shane Warne’s record for most Test wickets taken by an Australian in Sri Lanka. His three-wicket haul in the first innings took his tally to 38 wickets, one more than Warne.
200 Wickets in World Test Championship
Lyon also became the first spinner and only the second bowler overall to claim 200 wickets in the World Test Championship (WTC). His ability to consistently perform at the highest level has solidified his reputation as one of the greatest spinners in modern-day cricket.
Key Takeaways from the Match
- Australia’s Batting Dominance: A 654/6 declaration set the stage for an overwhelming lead.
- Lyon’s Historic Achievement: Surpassed Warne’s record and became the first spinner to take 200 WTC wickets.
- Sri Lanka’s Struggles: Collapsed for 165 in the first innings and are still 414 runs behind in the second innings.
- Matt Kuhnemann’s Impact: A brilliant 5-63 spell ensured Sri Lanka’s first-innings downfall.
- Follow-On Pressure: Sri Lanka faces an uphill battle to avoid a humiliating defeat.
FAQs
1. How many wickets has Nathan Lyon taken in Sri Lanka?
Nathan Lyon has taken 38 Test wickets in Sri Lanka, surpassing Shane Warne’s previous record of 37.
2. What is Australia’s highest Test total against Sri Lanka?
Australia posted 654/6 declared, making it one of their highest Test totals against Sri Lanka.
3. How did Matt Kuhnemann perform in the match?
Matt Kuhnemann took a five-wicket haul (5-63), playing a crucial role in dismissing Sri Lanka for 165.
4. Who scored the most runs for Australia in this Test?
Usman Khawaja top-scored with 232 runs, anchoring Australia’s innings.
5. Can Sri Lanka still save the match?
Sri Lanka faces a monumental task as they trail by over 400 runs with seven wickets remaining in their second innings, making a loss highly likely.
