Australia Dominate Morning Session as Head, Khawaja Shine in Galle

Australia made a strong start in the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle, with Travis Head's rapid fifty and Usman Khawaja’s composed innings setting the tone for the visitors.

Promoted to open the innings, Head smashed a 40-ball 57, justifying the bold decision to push him up the order. His aggressive intent put Sri Lanka under pressure early, helping Australia to a commanding 92-run opening partnership. However, Sri Lanka fought back late in the session, removing both Head and Marnus Labuschagne before lunch.

Steven Smith reached a major milestone, becoming only the fourth Australian batter to score 10,000 Test runs, joining legends Ricky Ponting, Allan Border, and Steve Waugh. Smith achieved the feat with a single off his first ball just before the interval.

Missed Chances Cost Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, playing with a spin-heavy attack, failed to capitalize on key opportunities as Khawaja (65*) and Smith (1*) survived close chances. Leg-spinner Jeffrey Vandersay, a surprise selection, troubled the Australians with sharp turn, dismissing Labuschagne for 20.

Head’s Aggression Sets the Tone
Coming in as an opener, Head played fearlessly, racing to 23 off 13 balls, punishing Asitha Fernando’s wayward bowling. He reached his half-century in just 35 balls, using swift footwork to dominate Sri Lankan spinners Nishan Peiris and Prabath Jayasuriya. His innings ended when he mistimed a shot off Jayasuriya, caught at long-on.

Meanwhile, Khawaja played with calm precision, reaching his fifty in 71 balls, effectively using the reverse sweep to counter spin. Despite a good start, Australia will be wary of Sri Lanka’s growing confidence, especially with Vandersay producing sharp turn.

Spin to Lead Australia’s Attack
Australia opted for a spin-heavy bowling lineup with Nathan Lyon, Todd Murphy, and Matthew Kuhnemann, leaving Mitchell Starc as the only frontline pacer. Scott Boland was controversially dropped, despite taking 10 wickets in his last Test.

With the match finely poised, the second session promises an intriguing battle between Australia’s aggressive batting and Sri Lanka’s spin threat.