Australia is now on the verge of completing a series sweep against Sri Lanka after a dramatic finish on the third day of the second Test in Galle. A late flurry of wickets put the visitors in the driver’s seat, with Sri Lanka’s batting order crumbling in the final session of the day.
After Australia posted a formidable 414 runs in their first innings, thanks to solid performances from Steve Smith, who scored 131, and Alex Carey, who contributed a powerful 156, Sri Lanka faced a steep challenge to get back into the match. Australia’s top order had laid a solid foundation, but it was Smith’s century and Carey’s aggressive knock that set the tone for the innings.
In reply, Sri Lanka started cautiously but fell behind as the Australian bowlers, led by Nathan Lyon and Matthew Kuhnemann, relentlessly applied pressure. The hosts struggled to find their rhythm, and while Angelo Mathews fought hard with a well-played 76, his efforts were not enough to stem the flow of wickets. Sri Lanka ended the day at 211 for 8, trailing by 54 runs.
The turning point of the day came late in the final session when Australia broke through Sri Lanka’s middle and lower order, claiming three quick wickets for just 13 runs in the space of five overs. This late surge put Australia firmly on the brink of securing a victory, and with only two wickets left for Sri Lanka, the hosts now face an uphill battle to avoid defeat.
For Sri Lanka to stay alive in the match, their remaining batters will need to defy the odds and set a challenging target. They will also need to rely on Kusal Mendis, who remained unbeaten on 48 runs, to keep the Australian bowlers at bay. However, with the Australian bowlers in fine form, it is difficult to see how Sri Lanka can avoid a heavy defeat.
Australia’s on the other hand, will be keen to wrap up the remaining wickets and set about chasing down whatever target Sri Lanka sets. The final day promises to be thrilling, with Australia looking to finish the job and clinch the series, while Sri Lanka will be fighting to survive and extend the contest.
With the series on the line, all eyes will be on Australia’s bowlers, including Lyon and Kuhnemann, to see if they can maintain their momentum and seal a clean sweep of the series. The match has been a testament to Australia’s dominance in all facets of the game, and if they can claim victory, it will be a fitting end to a highly successful tour of Sri Lanka.
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