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Alex Carey top-scored as Australia were bowled out for 414 and thus taking a 157-run lead over Sri Lanka on Day 3 of the second Test in Galle.
Alex Carey (left) and Adam Gilchrist (AP/AFP)
Australia continue to dominate Sri Lanka on their ongoing two-Test tour with their batters scoring truckload of runs in Galle. After bowling out Sri Lanka for 257 in 97.4 overs, Australia responded by putting up 457 on the board and taking a lead of 157 runs. The Steve Smith-led side has a 1-0 lead in the series having stormed to an innings win earlier this month.
The current world champions’ innings was powered by centuries from Alex Carey and captain Smith. Carey scored 156 off 188 while Smith made 131 off 154 – his second ton of the tour and 36th overall.
During his innings, Carey surpassed the record of legendary Australian cricketer Adam Gilchrist for the highest score by a wicketkeeper-batter from his country in Asia.
Gilchrist held the record having scored 144 each against Sri Lanka in 2004 and then Bangladesh in 2006.
Carey’s 156 is now the highest Test score by an Australian wicketkeeper-batter in Asia and also the first to record a 150-plus score. He struck 15 fours and two sixes during his stay.
The 33-year-old is the second Australian wicketkeeper after Gilchrist to score a hundred in Asia.
“I think I stuck to a plan and a process and kept it pretty simple,” Carey said on Friday. “I went to reverse sweeps at times. I played it on the straight plane as well, when I thought there was an opportunity to do so.”
“The sweeps and reverses have always been my game, but I think it’s about staying patient for longer. I think I’m probably playing those shots at a time when the field allows for it. I’m just being a little bit smarter, and understanding risk versus reward, and the potential field changes sweeping might bring. I think I’m playing it with a bit more intent to do other things, and just get down the other end,” he added.
The series is part of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship with Australia and South Africa set to face in the title clash later this year.
- Location :
Galle (Australia)
