Australia stands on the brink of securing victory in the second Test against Sri Lanka, eyeing a series sweep in Galle after claiming three wickets in the final five overs of day three.
The day’s drama unfolded dramatically when Sri Lanka lost its eighth wicket on the last delivery, with Matthew Kuhnemann sending Prabath Jayasuriya’s delivery to the slips. This left the hosts at 211 runs for 8, leading by just 54, and now facing the daunting task of setting Australia a competitive target with only two wickets remaining. Kusal Mendis, who is not out on 48, carries the hopes of the Sri Lankan team as they strive to build a challenging total.
Australia began the day in a commanding position, bolstered by first-innings centuries from Steve Smith (131) and Alex Carey (156). However, a sudden collapse of 7 wickets for just 64 runs in the first session shifted the momentum, leaving Australia with a 157-run lead that could have been more substantial.
Sri Lanka’s response was steady but not explosive, with veteran Angelo Mathews playing a crucial role. He scored 76 runs and formed key partnerships with captain Dhananjaya de Silva (23) and Mendis, helping to push the hosts ahead. As Mathews and Mendis built a partnership exceeding 50 runs, the match appeared to tilt in Sri Lanka’s favor, especially as the Australian bowlers began to show signs of fatigue.
However, pivotal captaincy from Steve Smith and some questionable shot selection from Sri Lankan batters turned the tide again. With a 41-run lead and two well-set batters at the crease, Mathews attempted a risky sweep shot against Nathan Lyon, misjudging the delivery and top-edging it to Beau Webster—a decision that proved costly as the day’s play concluded with uncertainty hanging over the Sri Lankan innings.
As the teams prepare for what promises to be a gripping final day, Australia looks poised to seal the series, while Sri Lanka must regroup and find a way to fend off impending defeat.
+ There are no comments
Add yours