Debutant Cooper Connolly bowled just three overs as Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Starc led the Australian attack against a resilient Sri Lankan side. Dinesh Chandimal anchored Sri Lanka's innings with 76, preventing a collapse and setting up a tense second day.
Australia 's specialist bowlers were put to the test as Sri Lanka reached 9-229 on day one of the second Test in Galle . Debutant Cooper Connolly , selected ahead of specialist spinner Todd Murphy , managed just three overs, while Nathan Lyon (3-78) and Mitchell Starc (3-37) spearheaded the Australia n attack. The tourists had initially hoped for more consistent spin on a dry pitch that offered more low bounce than anticipated.
Dinesh Chandimal anchored Sri Lanka's innings with a resolute 76, preventing a collapse reminiscent of the first Test. Kusal Mendis (59 not out) and Ramesh Mendis added valuable runs in the lower order, forcing Australia to rely heavily on Starc's second new ball to break the partnership. Australia, however, will need to be cautious with their batting on a pitch that is expected to deteriorate further. Josh Inglis was troubled by back soreness, and the balance of the Australian side will be crucial in the upcoming stages of the match.Connolly's inclusion marked the first time Australia had played with just three specialist bowlers since the Manchester Test earlier this year, when Todd Murphy was dropped for Cameron Green. Assistant coach Dan Vettori explained that the decision was based on the anticipated conditions and the belief that Connolly's all-round capabilities would be more valuable than Murphy's specialized spin bowling. Vettori acknowledged the tough call on Murphy, highlighting his previous contributions to the team. Despite the disappointment, Murphy and Connolly shared a warm embrace after the young debutant received his cap, a moment that underscored the camaraderie within the Australian squad.The day began with Sri Lanka winning the toss and electing to bat. Australia nearly struck early when Pathum Nissanka was twice nearly dismissed lbw to Matt Kuhnemann. Lyon then claimed the crucial wicket of Nissanka with his fourth delivery, prompting the dismissal of Dimuth Karunaratne, who was playing his 100th and final Test. Travis Head then joined the attack, adding to the pressure on the Sri Lankan batsmen with his erratic and unorthodox bowling style. Dhananjaya de Silva became Starc's first victim, caught by Beau Webster at backward point. However, Chandimal, Kusal Mendis, and Ramesh Mendis rallied to frustrate the Australian bowlers, ensuring that Sri Lanka reached a respectable total before stumps. The second day promises to be equally intense as Australia faces the challenge of defending their lead on a deteriorating pitch
Cricket Test Match Australia Sri Lanka Galle Dinesh Chandimal Nathan Lyon Mitchell Starc Cooper Connolly Todd Murphy
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