SL vs AUS Playing 11, 2nd Test: Sri Lanka vs Australia Probable Playing XI, Preview, Weather & Pitch Report

Fans are eagerly anticipating the commencement of the 2nd Test between Sri Lanka and Australia, set to ignite at the iconic Galle International Stadium. This series, forming a crucial part of the 2023-2025 ICC World Test Championship.

Not only rekindles the historic rivalry between these two cricketing powerhouses but also honours the legacies of spin wizards Shane Warne and Muttiah Muralitharan, with the coveted Warne-Muralitharan Trophy at stake.

The Galle venue has been the stage for numerous memorable encounters, and this series promises to add another thrilling chapter to its storied history. Both teams are arriving with a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, all eager to make their mark in the subcontinent's challenging conditions.

Match Information:

• Date: Thursday, February 6, 2025
• Time: 10:00 AM IST
• Venue: Galle International Stadium, Galle
• Telecast: Sony Sports Network Channels
• Streaming: SonyLiv and FanCode apps & websites

SL vs AUS Head to Head Record, 2nd Test: Australia Tour of Sri Lanka 2025, Stats and Results

Weather & Pitch Report:

Galle's coastal climate suggests the possibility of intermittent rain showers during the match days, which could lead to interruptions. The pitch at Galle is renowned for its spin-friendly nature, traditionally offering significant turn as the game progresses. Batsmen will need to be vigilant, especially in the later innings, while spinners are expected to play a pivotal role in determining the outcome.

SL vs AUS Playing XI:

Sri Lanka: Dimuth Karunaratne, Oshada Fernando, Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, Kamindu Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva (C), Kusal Mendis (WK), Prabath Jayasuriya, Nishan Peiris, Jeffrey Vandersay, Asitha Fernando

Australia: Usman Khawaja, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith (C), Josh Inglis, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (WK), Mitchell Starc, Matthew Kuhnemann, Nathan Lyon, Todd Murphy

Sri Lanka vs Australia Preview:

Sri Lanka:

The hosts, under the leadership of Dhananjaya de Silva, are banking on their spinners to exploit the home advantage. The batting lineup boasts experienced players like Angelo Mathews and Dimuth Karunaratne, who will be crucial in anchoring the innings. The spin department, spearheaded by Prabath Jayasuriya and supported by Jeffrey Vandersay, aims to challenge the Australian batsmen on the turning tracks of Galle.

Australia:

Led by Steve Smith, the Australian side is keen to overcome the challenges posed by subcontinental conditions. The batting order features stalwarts such as Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne, who have previously showcased their prowess against spin. The bowling attack, comprising the likes of Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon, is prepared to exploit any assistance the pitch offers, with Lyon's off-spin expected to be particularly threatening.

Injury Update:

Sri Lanka's Pathum Nissanka is likely to miss the first Test due to injury concerns, prompting potential adjustments at the top of the order.

Sri Lanka vs Australia Complete Squads

Sri Lanka Squad: Dimuth Karunaratne, Oshada Fernando, Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, Kamindu Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva(c), Kusal Mendis(w), Prabath Jayasuriya, Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando, Asitha Fernando, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Jeffrey Vandersay, Nishan Peiris, Sonal Dinusha, Lahiru Udara, Milan Priyanath Rathnayake

Australia Squad: Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith(c), Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey(w), Sean Abbott, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Nathan McSweeney, Todd Murphy, Cooper Connolly