Sri Lanka vs Australia: Steve Smith’s Century and Usman Khawaja’s 147* Put Australia in Command on Day 1 in Galle

The ongoing 1st Test between Australia and Sri Lanka at Galle has seen a dominant performance by the Australian team on Day 1. Australia, after electing to bat, reached a strong total of 330/2 in 81.1 overs by the end of play. Usman Khawaja, who remained unbeaten on 147 off 210 balls, was the star of the day, while Steven Smith also brought up a century, reaching 104* from 188 balls. Travis Head contributed with a quick-fire 57 off 40 balls before being dismissed, and Marnus Labuschagne was out for 20.

Australia’s run rate stood at 4.06 with Khawaja and Smith putting up an impressive partnership. Sri Lanka’s bowling attack struggled to make a breakthrough, with Prabath Jayasuriya and Jeffrey Vandersay picking up one wicket each. Jayasuriya, despite his efforts, conceded 102 runs from 33 overs, while Vandersay gave away 93 runs in 20 overs. The fall of wickets came in the 14.3 and 29.6 overs, with Head and Labuschagne departing.

The match is set to continue over the next few days, and the Australian team will look to extend their strong position heading into Day 2, with rain interrupting play towards the end of Day 1.