Australia began their two-Test series against Sri Lanka on January 29, 2025, at the picturesque Galle International Stadium, with cricket fans buzzing over several changes expected to influence the outcome on the traditionally spin-friendly wicket. The standout of the day was Josh Inglis, making his Test debut at number five, without taking on wicketkeeping duties (that role fell to Alex Carey), after being presented with the coveted Baggy Green cap by former Test opener Geoff Marsh.
“It's been quite the wait, and I’m just over the moon to finally get my chance,” Inglis said as he took to the crease amid bright conditions and high expectations.
Australia’s captain, Steve Smith, won the toss and opted to bat, explaining, “We need to establish our footing right here. The pitch will turn later on, and we’re eager to exploit what we can early.”
The Australian line-up saw notable omissions, including 19-year-old Sam Konstas, whose impressive outings during previous Tests had garnered admiration from former players and fans alike. Ricky Ponting and even Khawaja had both spoken highly of the teenager, thinking it worth giving him more opportunities. Smith acknowledged this trade-off during his pre-match remarks, emphasizing the need for experience to navigate Sri Lanka's slow bowlers, saying, “This adaptation is about addressing conditions first and foremost.”
Travis Head opened with Usman Khawaja, and their partnership started briskly. Head put on quite the show, reaching his half-century off just 35 balls, marking the fourth-fastest fifty recorded by an Australian batsman. His quick knock consisted of nine boundaries and one six, showcasing aggressive intent against the Sri Lankan spinners.
By the tenth over, Australia was well on their way to building momentum, with Head particularly dominating the scoring and putting pressure on the Sri Lankan bowlers. He complimented Khawaja’s steady approach as they soared to 66 runs before Sri Lanka’s bowling managed to regain composure.
Head’s innings came to shocking end when he attempted to launch another attack against Prabath Jayasuriya but instead holed out to Dinesh Chandimal, departing for 57 from just 40 deliveries. Utterly dissatisfied, he left the field feeling he had left potential runs on the table.
“I felt good out there, but I know I could have made more,” Head lamented post-match. “We’re competing for spots, and every run counts.”
With Head’s exit, Marnus Labuschagne arrived at the crease, receiving scattered applause from the crowd. Labuschagne initially struggled, flickering with uncertainty amid stellar bowling from Sri Lanka. At the opposite end, Khawaja utilized the slower pitches to work singles and boundaries, appearing more aggressive than he had been earlier.
By midday, Australia’s scoreboard hovered around 1/100, and the vibes were largely positive as their batting unit settled down. All eyes were now on Labuschagne to stabilize the innings following Head’s departure and to build up enough resistance.
The Sri Lankan bowling featured three specialist spinners—Prabath Jayasuriya, Nishan Peiris, and leg-spinner Jeffrey Vandersay—aiming to exploit the turning conditions. The only pace option was offered by veteran left-arm bowler, Ashitha Fernando.
Returning to the Australian order, the decision to rotate the squad had seemingly been well thought out, demonstrating Smith's foresight. The introduction of both Todd Murphy and Matthew Kuhnemann reflected the team's expectation of the pitch deteriorated for batting as the test proceeded. Smith noted the significance of quality spin after initially expressing faith in Beau Webster to provide valuable overs.
Despite the early runs, the day’s play was still laden with suspense as fans wondered whether Australia could maintain their advantage or if Sri Lanka were poised to make a comeback. Smith, who sat on the verge of reaching his 10,000th Test run, came to the crease determined to achieve this milestone. He also remained optimistic, adding, “It’s just another number, but achieving it here would mean so much.”
Throughout the day, viewers tuned to the rare free-to-air broadcast of the fixture, the first time such coverage had occurred for Australia’s tour of the subcontinent—a development reflecting the growing interest and accessibility of cricket back home.
With the sun setting on the first day, Australia ended the session solidly placed, but what lies next? Can the new batting order withstand the Sri Lankan spin challenge and take the first steps toward securing victory? The next day promises fresh excitement, packed with skill and determination!