Australia’s fortunes in Sri Lanka have been historically strong, but recent visits have highlighted challenges in adapting to the subcontinental conditions. Between 1983 and 2011, Australia toured Sri Lanka five times and lost just one Test, which was pivotal in their only series loss. However, their 2016 tour ended in a 3-0 whitewash, and in 2022, despite a strong win on a spinning pitch, they were beaten by an innings in the second match.
This series, starting this Wednesday, will see both Tests played in Galle, a ground that has been particularly favorable to Sri Lanka. Since Australia’s last loss there, Sri Lanka has won six of the eight matches, with Galle proving to be a spin-friendly venue. Prabath Jayasuriya, a left-arm spinner, has been particularly dominant, taking eight five-wicket hauls in as many matches, including two ten-wicket hauls. His record at Galle is exceptional, with 71 of his 107 wickets coming from that ground.
Sri Lanka’s squad boasts a variety of spin options, including leg-breaks from Jeffrey Vandersay, off-breaks from Nishan Pereis and Dhananjaya da Silva, and left-arm spin from Sonal Dinusha. With four seamers and Angelo Mathews available, Sri Lanka has the flexibility to adapt to different conditions.
Australia’s squad, however, is an intriguing mix, with a focus on younger players rather than veterans with subcontinent experience. The absence of Peter Handscomb and Glenn Maxwell has left a gap in terms of players with proven track records in these conditions. The squad features Nathan McSweeney, Sam Konstas, and Cooper Connolly, none of whom have significant experience in the subcontinent. This raises questions about the team’s readiness, especially with the World Test Championship spot now in sight.
Steve Smith, the stand-in captain, has confirmed that Travis Head will open the batting, a plan that had been considered during Head’s successful stint as an opener in India in 2023. This leaves Konstas out of the XI, though it remains to be seen whether he will be dropped altogether. Marnus Labuschagne and Smith are locks at three and four, while Beau Webster is expected to bat at six, leaving the fifth spot up for grabs. The candidates include Konstas, McSweeney, Connolly, and Josh Inglis, who impressed during the World Cup in India. Despite Inglis’ solid performances, he has yet to make his Test debut, making him an intriguing option.
The bowling attack also presents several questions. Webster, who was picked as a seaming all-rounder, could share the new ball, but Australia typically prefers at least two specialist quicks, meaning Scott Boland is a likely starter alongside Mitchell Starc. Webster has bowled off-spin in the past, which could make him a second option in that role. With part-time spin options in Labuschagne and Smith, the case for McSweeney or Connolly, both of whom bowl a little, diminishes.
Nathan Lyon will lead the spin attack, supported by either Todd Murphy, Matt Kuhnemann, or both if Boland is left out. While Murphy’s strong performances in India could push him into the lineup, selectors may prefer Kuhnemann’s left-arm spin over two off-break bowlers. The final decision will likely depend on a pitch inspection before the match.
This series presents a unique challenge for Australia, who will be without key players like Pat Cummins, recovering from injury and welcoming a new baby, and Josh Hazlewood, still on the mend. The absence of Konstas, a recent star, further complicates their lineup. Australia will need to adapt quickly to the conditions and find the right balance between youth and experience as they aim to reverse their fortunes and build a team for the future.
