Khawaja, Inglis reach milestones as Australia punish Sri Lanka

Australia are in a dominant position after two days of the first Test against Sri Lanka, declaring on 6/654 before taking three wickets late on Thursday in Galle.

The visitors were already heavy favourites across cricket betting sites when they resumed on 2/330, and their advantage was furthered when Steve Smith and Usman Khawaja added another 71 runs for the third wicket.

While Smith fell for 141, Khawaja went on to record his maiden double century, combining with Josh Inglis for a 146-run partnership.

After Khawaja fell for 232, Inglis went on to notch a first of his own, making a Test tonne on debut.

“I don’t reckon it has quite sunk in,” Inglis said.

“Really special day. Something I’m really proud of.

“I’ve been around this group for a while now.

“It’s always nice to have your family around. Mom and dad made a quick dash.

“Hundred on debut is special, so I’m really happy.”

Inglis fell for 102 off 94 balls, but the Aussies continued to swing freely as Alex Carey (46*), Beau Webster (23) and Mitchell Starc (19*) added quick runs.

When the total crossed 650 runs midway through the final session, captain Smith called his side in to have a bowl.

What unfolded over the final hour of play was a very different picture, with Sri Lankan wickets falling regularly over the 15 overs they faced.

Openers Oshada Fernando (7) and Dimuth Karunaratne (7) both fell cheaply, as did Angelo Matthews (7).

Dinesh Chandimal (9*) and Kamindu Mendis (13*) stemmed the bleeding somewhat, guiding the hosts to 3/44 at stumps.

With Sri Lanka trailing by 610 runs and three of their best back in the sheds already, Test cricket bookmakers are giving them next to no hope of winning the match.

Bovada is paying +4000 for a Sri Lankan victory, while Australia are at -1000.

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