**Sri Lanka 1-0 Up, Mendis & Fernando Centuries**

Tecfai Editorial Team

You need 2 min read

·

Post on Nov 14, 2024

50 visitor like this post

Share

Sri Lanka 1-0 Up, Mendis & Fernando Centuries: A Dominant Display in Galle

Sri Lanka roared into the first Test against Australia, securing a comprehensive victory at the Galle International Stadium. The hosts dominated the match, securing a 10-wicket win, thanks to impressive centuries from Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis, and Pathum Nissanka in the first innings, followed by a brilliant bowling performance, and a clinical chase in the second innings.

Mendis & Fernando Shine in a Dominant First Innings

Sri Lanka, batting first, got off to a strong start with Dimuth Karunaratne and Kusal Mendis putting on a 190-run opening stand. Karunaratne was eventually dismissed for a solid 127 runs, but Mendis went on to register a brilliant century of his own, scoring 143 runs, his 13th Test century.

Pathum Nissanka played a crucial role in the innings as well, adding a quickfire 68 runs, and with Fernando's 76 runs, Sri Lanka amassed a formidable total of 450 runs.

Sri Lankan Spinners Dominate

The Sri Lankan bowlers then took control of the match. Prabath Jayasuriya, the left-arm orthodox spinner, continued his impressive form, taking 5/112 in the first innings. Ramesh Mendis, the off-spinner, added 3/93, and Asitha Fernando, playing in his second Test, claimed 2/89.

Australia, struggling against the spin, were bowled out for 321 runs, giving Sri Lanka a crucial 129-run lead.

Sri Lanka Chase Down 100 Runs for Victory

In the second innings, Australia fought back with Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith both scoring half-centuries, but the Sri Lankan spinners continued to dominate. Jayasuriya picked up another 5-wicket haul, this time claiming 5/131.

Sri Lanka needed a mere 100 runs to secure victory, and they achieved this with ease, losing just two wickets. Dimuth Karunaratne (44*) and Kusal Mendis (45*) were the key contributors, ensuring a comfortable win for their team.

Key Takeaways from the First Test

This resounding victory has put Sri Lanka in a strong position in the two-match Test series.

• Sri Lanka's Spin Attack: The performance of the Sri Lankan spinners, particularly Prabath Jayasuriya, has been the highlight of the match. Their ability to extract bounce and turn from the Galle pitch has proven highly effective against Australia.
• Mendis's Form: Kusal Mendis has been in excellent form, and his two centuries have been pivotal to Sri Lanka's success. His ability to play spin with confidence is a key asset for his team.
• Fernando's Impact: Asitha Fernando has impressed in his second Test match. His ability to generate bounce and movement with the ball has provided a valuable support to the Sri Lankan attack.

With a 1-0 lead, Sri Lanka will be looking to capitalize on their momentum and secure a series win in the second Test.