Thu Jan 30 09:12:13 UTC 2025: ## Aussie Batsmen Smash Sri Lanka in Galle; Inglis Makes Century on Debut
**Galle, Sri Lanka** – Australia dominated the first day of the Test match against Sri Lanka, piling on a massive first-innings total thanks to exceptional performances from Usman Khawaja and Josh Inglis. Khawaja scored a magnificent double century (232), his highest Test score ever, before Inglis marked his Test debut with a stunning century (102).
Inglis, a West Australian, became the first Australian to score a century on Test debut since Adam Voges in 2015. His innings, a crisp display of shots all around the wicket, came off just 90 balls, showcasing the batsman’s aggressive style. The partnership between Khawaja and Inglis yielded 117 runs, leaving Sri Lanka’s bowlers demoralized.
Khawaja’s double century was only the third-highest score by an Australian batsman in Asia, trailing only Mark Taylor’s 334 and Greg Chappell’s 235. Australia declared at 518 for 3 after 124 overs, their highest first-innings total in an away Test since their 556 against Pakistan in Karachi in 2022. The team’s run rate of 4.2 runs per over highlights their dominance.
Meanwhile, in a separate women’s match at the MCG, Australia’s spinners also shone, with Alana King taking three wickets for 31 runs and Jess Jonassen contributing a wicket for 18. England’s batting lineup struggled against the Australian attack.
The Australian men’s team’s performance in Galle leaves Sri Lanka facing a significant challenge. The match highlights the strong batting form of the Australians, while also showcasing the effectiveness of their bowling attack in the women’s game.
First Piper 