The Australian team is anticipating an even drier and barer surface for the second Test against Sri Lanka, starting Thursday, following an additional day of preparation after the first Test concluded earlier than scheduled.
The Galle International Stadium pitch, which has been baking under clear skies, is expected to spin earlier than in the series opener. Australia’s star batter and newly crowned Allan Border Medallist, Travis Head, inspected the surface and noted that it looked even more barren than the pitch used in the first Test.
“It probably looks a little bit dry but looks a really good wicket still,” Head said. “It looks like it will spin earlier, but the first couple of days should be good for batting.”
Australia is preparing for a scenario where the pitch significantly shifts towards spin-dominance, similar to the first Test, where conditions changed on day three.
Reflecting on the previous encounter at Galle in 2022, Head recalled the distinct dryness at both ends of the pitch and the heavy rolling in the middle, designed to minimize the impact of pace bowling. However, the current surface appears more evenly prepared but likely to favor spinners earlier in the match.
With Sri Lanka aiming to bounce back, and Australia keen on adapting to the conditions, the second Test promises to be another fascinating contest in the historic coastal venue.