Thu Feb 06 17:51:23 UTC 2025: ## Aussie Rookie Connolly Debuts in Galle as Sri Lanka Celebrates Karunaratne’s Farewell

**Galle, Sri Lanka:** Cooper Connolly made his highly anticipated Test debut for Australia against Sri Lanka in the second Test at Galle today. The Western Australian spin-bowling all-rounder, who received his Baggy Green cap from former Test player Simon Katich, replaced Todd Murphy in the Australian playing XI. This change reflects Australia’s strategy to bolster their batting strength on a spin-friendly pitch where runs are expected to be scarce.

Connolly, despite having yet to take a first-class wicket, impressed Australian captain Steve Smith with his net performance. Smith expressed confidence in Connolly’s ability to adapt to the challenging conditions, emphasizing the importance of consistent line and length. The young all-rounder’s recent success, having been named BBL 2025 Player of the Tournament, further underscores his potential. His parents, Shane and Donna, travelled from Perth to witness this momentous occasion.

The match also marked a poignant moment for Sri Lanka, as it was the final Test for their captain, Dimuth Karunaratne, who was honoured in a pre-game ceremony after announcing his retirement yesterday. Karunaratne played his 100th Test match.

Australia won the toss and elected to bowl first.

**Playing XIs:**

**Sri Lanka:** Dimuth Karunaratne, Pathum Nissanka, Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, Kamindu Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Kusal Mendis (wk), Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Nishan Peiris, Lahiru Kumara

**Australia:** Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey (wk), Beau Webster, Cooper Connolly, Mitch Starc, Nathan Lyon, Matt Kuhnemann

Read More