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Sri Lanka will look to put up a stronger fight in the second Test after suffering a humiliating loss in the series opener. Australia dominated the first match, winning by an innings and 242 runs, leaving Sri Lanka searching for answers.
The visitors batted once and batted big, posting 654/6 declared, with Usman Khawaja (232), Steve Smith (141), and Josh Inglis (102) scoring centuries. Their spinners then tormented Sri Lanka, ensuring an easy win.
This match is also significant as it marks the final Test for Dimuth Karunaratne, who will play his 100th match before retiring from the format. Sri Lanka will hope to give their veteran opener a memorable farewell.
Can Sri Lanka bounce back, or will Australia continue their dominant run?
Match Details
| Match | Sri Lanka vs Australia, 2nd Test |
|---|---|
| Venue | Galle International Stadium, Galle |
| Date & Time | February 8-12, 2025, 10:00 AM Local Time |
| Format | Test Match (Australia Tour of Sri Lanka 2025) |
| Streaming | Sony Sports Network, SonyLIV |
Teams Preview
Sri Lanka Preview
Sri Lanka’s batting failure in the first Test was a major concern. 165 and 247 all out were never going to be enough against a strong Australian side. The top order collapsed, and the bowlers struggled to contain the opposition.
This match is a chance for experienced players like Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, and Dhananjaya de Silva to step up. Kamindu Mendis, who had a poor first Test, must make an impact to prove his potential.
Bowling was another weak link. The spinners struggled against Australia’s well-prepared batters. Prabath Jayasuriya and Jeffrey Vandersay were the only wicket-takers, but they couldn’t create consistent pressure. The pacers were ineffective, meaning Sri Lanka must rethink their bowling strategy.
Key Players:
- Dimuth Karunaratne – Will want a strong farewell performance.
- Dinesh Chandimal – The only batter who looked comfortable in the first Test.
- Prabath Jayasuriya – Needs to trouble Australia’s batters early.
Sri Lanka Predicted Playing XI:
Oshada Fernando, Dimuth Karunaratne, Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, Kamindu Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Kusal Mendis (wk), Prabath Jayasuriya, Jeffrey Vandersay, Nishan Peiris, Asitha Fernando
Australia Preview
Australia couldn’t have asked for a better start to the series. They dominated with both bat and ball, ensuring a comfortable win. Sam Konstas has already returned home, proving their squad depth and confidence.
With the bat, Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith, and Josh Inglis were brilliant. Travis Head chipped in with a half-century, showing why he won the Allan Border Medal.
Bowling was equally impressive. Matthew Kuhnemann (5 wickets) and Nathan Lyon (3 wickets) made life difficult for Sri Lanka. Mitchell Starc provided support with early breakthroughs. Expect them to dominate again, especially on a turning pitch.
Key Players:
- Usman Khawaja – A massive 232 in the last match.
- Matthew Kuhnemann – Took a five-wicket haul in Galle.
- Steve Smith – Reliable batter who can anchor the innings.
Australia Predicted Playing XI:
Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (c), Josh Inglis, Alex Carey (wk), Beau Webster, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Kuhnemann, Nathan Lyon
Fantasy Team XI
| Player | Team | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Usman Khawaja (C) | Australia | Batter |
| Dimuth Karunaratne | Sri Lanka | Batter |
| Steve Smith (VC) | Australia | Batter |
| Dinesh Chandimal | Sri Lanka | Batter |
| Travis Head | Australia | Batter |
| Dhananjaya de Silva | Sri Lanka | All-rounder |
| Kamindu Mendis | Sri Lanka | All-rounder |
| Matthew Kuhnemann | Australia | Bowler |
| Prabath Jayasuriya | Sri Lanka | Bowler |
| Nathan Lyon | Australia | Bowler |
| Mitchell Starc | Australia | Bowler |
Pitch & Weather Report
Weather Conditions
- Temperature: 30°C on match days
- Humidity: High (70-90%)
- Rain Forecast: Very little rain expected
- Wind: Light breeze, no major impact
Pitch Report
The Galle pitch is slow and dry, offering turn from Day 3 onwards.
- Batters need patience, as spinners dominate later in the game.
- Fast bowlers struggle, but reverse swing might come into play.
- First innings score of 350+ will be crucial.
Toss Prediction: To Bat
- The pitch will deteriorate quickly, making batting first crucial.
- Spinners will dominate in the final days.
Match Prediction
Sri Lanka should show improvement, but Australia’s depth and quality make them favorites again. Even without Pat Cummins, the visitors have enough firepower to seal another victory.
Prediction: Australia to win
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