Australia in Control as Sri Lanka Struggles on Day One

Australia dominated the first day of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle, leaving the hosts struggling at 229-9 by stumps. Off-spinner Nathan Lyon set the tone early, taking three crucial wickets, including opener Dimuth Karunaratne, who was bowled for 36 in his milestone 100th and final Test match.

Dinesh Chandimal fought hard with a well-crafted 74 from 163 balls before being stumped off Matthew Kuhnemann's bowling. Kusal Mendis provided some resistance, staying unbeaten on 59, but Sri Lanka lost wickets regularly. Mitchell Starc struck late, removing Ramesh Mendis and Prabath Jayasuriya in quick succession, while Kuhnemann cleaned up Nishan Peiris before the close of play.

With Australia already leading the series 1-0 after a record innings victory in the first Test, they are in a commanding position to push for another dominant win. Youngster Cooper Connolly made his Test debut but bowled just three overs without taking a wicket.