Australia’s first innings totaled 414 runs on the third day of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle, securing a 157-run lead over the hosts.
Australian captain Steve Smith achieved a major milestone during the innings, becoming the highest-scoring Australian Test batsman in Asia. Smith reached this feat by scoring 131 runs, surpassing former captain Ricky Ponting’s record of 1,889 runs. Smith’s career tally on Asian pitches now stands at 1,994 runs at an average of 52.47, solidifying his reputation as one of Australia’s finest batsmen in subcontinental conditions.
Australia began the day at 330 for 3 but saw a swift collapse as Sri Lanka’s bowlers restricted them to an additional 84 runs before dismissing the remaining seven wickets. Alex Carey was Australia’s top scorer, registering a remarkable 156-run knock, providing a significant boost to the team’s first-innings total.
Among the Sri Lankan bowlers, Prabath Jayasuriya stood out with a five-wicket haul, finishing with 5 for 151. This marks his 11th five-wicket haul in Test cricket, reaffirming his status as Sri Lanka’s key spin bowler.
Despite Sri Lanka’s fightback in the latter part of the innings, Australia’s strong first-innings total and the 157-run lead place them in a commanding position as the match progresses.
