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The second Test between Sri Lanka and Australia is underway at the Galle International Cricket Stadium. With the series on the line, Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bat first, aiming to post a strong total on a spin-friendly surface. However, their start did not go as planned, as they lost opener Pathum Nissanka early when the scoreboard read just 23 runs.
Dimuth Karunaratne and Dinesh Chandimal steady the ship
After the early setback, veteran batter Dimuth Karunaratne, playing his final Test match, joined forces with Dinesh Chandimal to rescue the hosts. The experienced duo built a crucial 70-run partnership for the second wicket, stabilizing Sri Lanka’s innings and giving their side hope for a competitive total.
Just as the pair looked set to guide Sri Lanka to a commanding position, Australia struck back, courtesy of a moment of brilliance from Nathan Lyon. The experienced off-spinner produced a peach of a delivery to clean up Karunaratne, breaking the crucial partnership and silencing the home crowd.
Nathan Lyon’s magic delivery stuns Karunaratne
The defining moment came on the third ball of the 33rd over, with Lyon weaving his magic to dismiss the Sri Lankan captain. Karunaratne, who was hanging back in his crease, misjudged the delivery as it angled in sharply. He attempted to bring his bat down in time but only managed to cue-end the ball, which kissed the bottom of the bat and rolled onto the stumps.
Lyon’s setup was masterful—he got the first ball to turn away sharply, keeping Karunaratne guessing, and then followed it up with the one that angled in, completely deceiving the left-hander. The stunned crowd watched in disbelief as Karunaratne walked back for 36 in his farewell Test.
Here is the video:
BOWLED.
Lyon takes his second as Karunaratne is knocked over #SLvAUS pic.twitter.com/6QRwmr8Oct
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) February 6, 2025
Also READ: Dimuth Karunaratne names his most memorable innings as Sri Lanka’s captain
Australia dominate as Sri Lanka lose wickets at regular intervals
Following Karunaratne’s dismissal, Sri Lanka struggled to build momentum as wickets kept falling at regular intervals. Despite Chandimal’s valiant effort, top-scoring with 74 runs, the home side found themselves in a tricky position at 169/6 after 65 overs.
