Marnus Labschagne has taken advantage of a missed stumping to score his first Test century on foreign soil as Australia made a strong start to the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle.
Labuschagne (104) and Steve Smith (109 not out) combined for a 134-run partnership as the tourists ended day one in a comfortable position on 5-298 after winning the toss.
The Australian No.3’s innings could’ve ended at just 28 after he missed a straight delivery from off-spinner Ramesh Mendis while coming down the wicket, but Sri Lankan wicket-keeper Niroshan Dickwella made an absolute meal of the chance and allowed Labuschagne ample time to get back inside his crease.
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Sri Lanka were made to pay dearly for the missed chance as Labuschagne and Smith ground its bowling attack into the turf in sweltering conditions.
Ironically, Labuschagne’s innings eventually came to an end with a stumping, this time off the bowling of Test debutant Prabath Jayasuriya, who was impressive in his first day of Test action with three wickets.
Smith took over after Labuschagne’s dismissal, ensuring Australia would end the day in a formidable position, even with first Test heroes Travis Head and Cameron Green falling cheaply.
The former skipper brought up his century with a gorgeous cover drive in the final session, with the ton his first of the calendar year and the first since January 2021.
Pat Cummins had no hesitation before electing to bat on a pitch which was much more batter-friendly compared to the rank turner from the first Test at the same venue.
Australia will resume on day two looking to further assert its dominance over the home side, with Smith and keeper Alex Carey (16 not out) at the crease.