Australia dominates Sri Lanka on Day 2 of first Test in Galle

Australia’s dominant batting performance continued on Day 2 of the first Test in Galle, as they declared their innings on a massive total of 654 for 6, built on outstanding centuries from Usman Khawaja, Steven Smith, and debutant Josh Inglis. Sri Lanka, already on the back foot, then struggled against Australia's attack, ending the day at 44 for 3 with the rain halting play prematurely.

Usman Khawaja, who scored a brilliant 232 runs off 352 balls, was the star of the day. His double century, which came before lunch, helped Australia to their highest-ever total against Sri Lanka. Khawaja’s innings overshadowed his previous best in Sri Lanka, a knock of 166 in 2004, and came after a long wait for his first Test century in 18 months. He was eventually dismissed, caught behind off Prabath Jayasuriya for a well-played 232.

Smith, who resumed his innings from 104 not out, made 141 before being dismissed lbw by Sri Lanka's most dangerous bowler, legspinner Jeffrey Vandersay. Smith’s knock was significant as it brought him into the elite 10,000-run club for Test cricket, joining the ranks of just four other Australian cricketers to achieve the milestone.

On debut, Josh Inglis impressed with a rapid 102 off 94 balls. His innings included impressive footwork against the spinners, and his knock made him the first Australian debutant to score a century since Adam Voges in 2015. Inglis celebrated his century with an emotional gesture, acknowledging his parents in the crowd. However, his excitement was short-lived as he was dismissed shortly after reaching the landmark.

Australia’s bowlers then took control of the game as they dismantled Sri Lanka's top order. Sri Lanka’s openers, Oshada Fernando and Dimuth Karunaratne, both fell early in the innings. Fernando was trapped lbw for 7 by left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann, playing his first Test in almost two years. Karunaratne followed soon after, edging a delivery from Mitchell Starc to the gully. Then, Angelo Mathews was brilliantly caught at short leg by Travis Head off Nathan Lyon’s bowling.

The Sri Lankan team, which had spent over 150 overs in the field, struggled to get any momentum in their chase. After failing to break through Australia’s aggressive batting, they were left to battle against an Australia attack that seemed to gain confidence as the day progressed. 

Sri Lanka's bowling was ineffective, with Vandersay being the only bowler to make any impact, claiming 3 wickets for 193 runs in 60 overs. Despite Sri Lanka's effort, Australia’s performance highlighted their complete dominance in this Test.

With the rain halting play and the Sri Lankan batsmen facing a daunting task, Australia is in a commanding position to take control of the match.