Thu Jan 30 13:30:00 IST 2025: ## Khawaja and Inglis Steer Australia to Strong Position, Inglis Makes Debut Half-Century

**Colombo, Sri Lanka** – Usman Khawaja continued his masterful innings, pushing his score past 230, while debutant Josh Inglis notched a half-century as Australia dominated the day’s play against Sri Lanka. The pair frustrated the Sri Lankan bowlers, building a substantial partnership that put Australia in a commanding position.

Khawaja, demonstrating his class, played a mixture of defensive and attacking shots, accumulating runs steadily. Inglis, meanwhile, showcased his talent with a confident display, eventually reaching 63, including seven boundaries and a strike rate over 100. His innings marked the third consecutive Test for Australia where a debutant has scored a fifty.

Despite Sri Lanka employing a variety of bowling strategies, including short balls and variations in pace, Khawaja and Inglis remained unfazed. While Sri Lanka’s bowlers showed some fight, particularly Prabath Jayasuriya who bowled 50 overs, they struggled to breakthrough the solid Australian partnership. Several close calls, including an LBW appeal against Khawaja that was overturned, added to the tension. Lady Luck also seemed to favour Australia, with a missed run-out chance for Khawaja contributing to his high score.

The day’s play ended with Australia in a dominant position, thanks largely to the outstanding performances of Khawaja and Inglis. The pair’s partnership underscored Australia’s batting depth and provided a strong foundation for their innings. The Sri Lankan bowlers will need to find a breakthrough quickly to prevent Australia from further extending their lead.

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