AUSTRALIA V SRI LANKA
Day two of the second Warne-Muralidaran Trophy Test match in Galle, Sri Lanka
SCORE: Sri Lanka 257, Australia 3-330
SUMMARY: Sri Lanka were all out for 257 half an hour after the restart with Kusal Mendis (85no) their most prolific batter. Out-of-sorts Marnus Labuschagne (4) again missed out as Australia wobbled to 2-37, and then to 3-91 when Usman Khawaja was trapped lbw. But centurions Steve Smith (120no) and Alex Carey (139no) partnered in an unbeaten 239-run partnership for the fourth wicket that put Australia on course for a series whitewash.
THE MOMENT: When he split the fielders with a trademark sweep, Carey brought up his second Test century to help Australia pile on the pain. The wicketkeeper played a chanceless innings batting out of position and will have silenced any suggestions Josh Inglis could be coming for his job as Test gloveman. He is yet to be dismissed this series and has passed his previous high score of 111, made against South Africa in late 2022.
THE PLAYER: Steve Smith is back to his brilliant best. The 35-year-old came in when Australia were in serious trouble at 2-37 and made a fourth century from five Tests as he batted out the day. Smith has made tons in both matches this series, leading from the front replacing Pat Cummins as captain.
THE STAT: Spin master Smith has now scored the most Test centuries for any Australian in Asia, overtaking Allan Border with his seventh ton on the continent. He is now also Australia’s top run-scorer in Asia, overtaking Ricky Ponting (1,889) just after lunch with 1,983 runs and counting.
https://thewest.com.au/sport/cricket/australia-monster-sri-lanka-on-day-two-in-galle-c-17648357
