Galle, Feb 7 (UNI) A stellar batting display from Alex Carey and captain Steve Smith propelled Australia into a commanding position on the second day of the second Test against Sri Lanka as they reached 330 for three at stumps on Friday, securing a 73-run lead.
Resuming the day at 229 for nine, Sri Lanka's innings was swiftly wrapped up at 257 in 97.4 overs, with Lahiru Kumara (2) falling to Matthew Kuhnemann in the morning session. Kusal Mendis remained unbeaten on 85. For Australia, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, and Kuhnemann claimed three wickets each, while Travis Head chipped in with one.
In response, Australia endured an early setback, losing two wickets for just 37 runs. Travis Head (37) and Marnus Labuschagne (4) departed early, leaving the visitors under pressure. However, Smith steadied the innings alongside Usman Khawaja, adding 54 runs for the third wicket before Nishan Peiris dismissed Khawaja for 36.
With Australia still in a precarious position, Carey joined Smith at the crease and the duo orchestrated a magnificent fightback. Their unbeaten partnership of 239 runs turned the tide firmly in Australia’s favour.
Smith played a patient knock, scoring an unbeaten 120 off 239 balls, including nine fours and a six. Alex Carey was the more aggressive of the two, smashing 139 not out off 156 balls with 13 boundaries and two sixes.
For Sri Lanka, Peiris was the most successful bowler, claiming two wickets, while Prabhat Jayasuriya picked up one.
At stumps, Australia’s dominant position leaves them well placed to dictate terms going into the third day, with Smith and Carey still at the crease.
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