In February 2025, Australian wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey achieved a remarkable milestone in the history of Australian cricket. During the second Test of Australia’s tour of Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium, Carey set a new record for the highest individual score by an Australian wicketkeeper-batter in Sri Lanka. Australian wicketkeeper-batters with the highest individual scores in Test matches in Sri Lanka:

• Alex Carey
• Ian Healy
• Adam Gilchrist

Alex Carey etches his name in history👏

A batting masterclass as he notches the highest individual score by an Australian wicketkeeper-batter in Sri Lanka.#SLvsAUS #AlexCarey pic.twitter.com/PqpoGWuCeg

— CricTracker (@Cricketracker) February 8, 2025

Australia's Growth in Subcontinent Conditions 

ALSO SEE : MS Dhoni’s Luxurious Ranchi Farmhouse Gets a Stunning Makeover with Iconic No.7

Australia has had difficult times playing in the subcontinent, generally not being able to come to terms with the spin-friendly wickets of the subcontinent, at least, the slow turning wickets there. However, players like Alex Carey would do their good part in rewriting that script for Australia. Such innings by Carey from Sri Lanka are evidence of how this team is learning to cope with the subcontinent conditions. These performances against tough bowling speaks volumes of the strength gaining in Australia's batting lineup to put a composed performance in the matters involving spin.
The record-breaking knock of Carey is another important moment in Australian cricket. While big names like Steve Smith and David Warner often hog the limelight, contributions by players like Carey are becoming increasingly important for Australian cricket. He would go down in history not just for his crucial moment for the team but for generations of cricketers as an inspiration who will face challenges and adjust to the most trying conditions. It was a lesson in resilience and adaptability in order to achieve success at international levels.

Travis Head Wicket Celebration on Feb 6, 2025: AUSTRALIA VS SRI LANKA

Match details

•   Venue: Galle international stadium
•  Date: 6th to 10th february 2025
•  Series: Australia tour of Sri Lanka

The second Test match on February 6, 2025, between Australia and Sri Lanka in Galle, all-rounder Travis Head of Australia was the 'Man of the Moment' as he celebrated a wicket caught by Steve Smith at slip of Sri Lankan batsman Kamindu Mendis behind, which seemed to be phenomenal for the viewers and commentators watching the game. This light-hearted gesture was a humorous nod to his occasional but effective contributions as a part-time bowler, acknowledging those rare moments when he steps up to provide key breakthroughs for his team.

ALSO READ: Major Changes for champions Trophy in Australia: Cummins & Hazlewood Out, New Faces Added to ODI Squad

This wasn’t just a one-off incident. It reminded fans of another quirky celebration during a Test match against India in December 2024. After taking the wicket of Rishabh Pant, Head made a curious gesture: he formed a circle with one hand and playfully inserted his index finger from the other hand into it.Though he isn't a regular bowler, he has given key breakthroughs when needed. More than scoring runs or taking wickets, it was all about enjoying the moment, be it with the bat, ball, or even in a memorable celebration, which kept the crowd entertained.

The wicket celebration from Travis Head. 😄 pic.twitter.com/vuMw5FSCe9

— Praveen kumar (@Naninaidu98) February 6, 2025

Travis Head's style of celebration on wickets reminds everyone that cricket is more than just a game of skill, strategy, and competition; it is also about fun, excitement, and personality. His celebrations are unique and entertaining, and players can have a good time and perform at their best. Humor and energy plus reactions keep the mood light on the field, which may help ease pressure during the long, tense match. In addition, the playful approach of Head serves to strengthen team spirit. Indeed, such moments will add laughter and, consequently, camaraderie among the teammates.

Australian team gave a heartwarming guard of honour to Sri Lankan cricketing star Dimuth Karunaratne as he walked out to bat in his 100th and final Test match. It was beautiful respect and admiration for this cricketing star from the cricketers around from the world.

A Tribute Fit for a Legend
Karunaratne has been a rock for over a decade at the top of Sri Lanka's batting lineup, and playing 100 Test matches is something that only a few cricketers achieve in their careers. Therefore, retirement at this peak moment makes it all the more special.
For the final time as a cricketer, the Australians prepared their formation, where one after the other stepped up and handed Karunaratne the honour guard before the crease while they were all clapping at him. The action demonstrated pure sportsmanship apart from Australia.Coming generations will speak about Karunaratne contributed to cricketing.

Australian team giving Guard of Honour to Dimuth Karunaratne on his Final & 100th Test Match.

- DIMUTH KARUNARATNE, THE LEGEND FOR SRI LANKA. 🙇 pic.twitter.com/eTCmorlRpM

— Tanuj Singh (@ImTanujSingh) February 6, 2025

A Lasting Legacy
Karunaratne has been one of Sri Lanka's most dependable openers who has guided the team through difficult matches and led by example with his composure and leadership. Many match winning performances have came from him as one of Sri Lanka's greatest cricketers.
Even though he is handing over his cricket in Test cricket to the next stars, the impact he has made for Sri Lanka Cricket will last for years.
ALSO READ: MARCUS STOINIS RETIRED FROM ODI FORMAT

Dimuth Karunaratne, a legend, a leader, and an inspiration!

AUS vs SL Match Preview

Australia will play two Tests against Sri Lanka, followed by two ODI's. Steve Smith will captain Australia in the absence of Pat Cummins. Australia will enter the Test series off the back of a historic 3-1 win over India. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka has no realistic chance of reaching the World Test Championship final after losing six of their first eleven matches this cycle.

AUS vs SL Match Details

Australia vs Sri Lanka – 1st Match, Test Match

Venue: Galle International Stadium, Galle

Date & Time: 29th January 2025 at 10:00 AM IST 

Live Streaming: FanCode

AUS vs SL Venue Stats

AUS vs SL Pitch Report

There will always be something to do for spin bowlers, and we expect this to be no exception on Tuesday evening. Both teams will aim to play positively, but with the understanding that a score of 175 in the initial innings is likely to be challenging. 

AUS vs SL Weather Report

Based on the forecast, the humidity will increase gradually throughout the evening. Clear skies and temperatures above 25 degrees throughout.

AUS vs SL Last Five Matches

AUS vs SL Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Hobart Hurricanes Win First BBL Title

AUS vs SL Probable Playing XIs:

Sri Lanka Probable Playing XIs

Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Dimuth Karunaratne, Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Jeffrey Vandersay, Asitha Fernando, Vishwa Fernando, Lahiru Kumara

Australia Probable Playing XIs

Steve Smith (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Travis Head (vc), Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster

Topmost Picks for AUS vs SL Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Australia

• Steve Smith – The Australian captain and a key batsman, known for his exceptional batting skills and ability to perform under pressure.
• Nathan Lyon – An experienced Australian bowler, known for his skill in taking wickets on spin-friendly pitches.

Top Picks – Sri Lanka

• Dimuth Karunaratne – A seasoned Sri Lankan batsman, recognized for his experience and ability to perform well in Test matches.
• Prabath Jayasuriya – A skilled Sri Lankan spinner, capable of taking wickets on spin-friendly pitches and winning crucial matches for the team.

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for AUS vs SL Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Dimuth Karunaratne, Steve Smith, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head(C), Dhananjaya de Silva, Kamindu Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya(VC), Scott Boland, Nathan Lyon

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for AUS vs SL Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Alex Carey, Dimuth Karunaratne, Steve Smith(C), Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head, Dhananjaya de Silva, Kamindu Mendis(VC), Prabath Jayasuriya, Scott Boland, Nathan Lyon

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Travis Head, Steve Smith

Vice-captain – Prabath Jayasuriya, Kamindu Mendis

Wicketkeeper – Kusal Mendis

AUS vs SL Probable Winners:

Australia’s strong batting lineup, potent pace attack, and reliable spin bowling option make them a formidable opponent for Sri Lanka. The Australian team has the ability to dominate the match and emerge victorious, while Sri Lanka will need to play out of their skins to challenge the Australians. Considering the team combination, Australia is expected to win this match.

Cricket Australia (CA) have finalized their Test squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka which will commence on January 29. Steve Smith will take over the captaincy responsibilities and will lead the side in the absence of Pat Cummins who has opted for a paternity leave. Besides, he is also addressing an ankle issue that came to light during the course of the five-match Border Gavaskar Test series against India. Travis Head has been named as Smith's deputy. 

There is no mention of Australian speedster Josh Hazlewood and bowling all-rounder Mitch Marsh, both of whom were ruled out mid-way through the Border Gavaskar Test series. As the Sri Lankan pitches are predominantly expected to favor spin, Australia have revamped their spin arsenal for all the obvious reasons. Cooper Connolly, Matt Kuhnemann, Nathan Lyon, and Todd Murphy are the four frontline spinners who have been drafted into the squad. 

Beau Webster and Sam Konstas were the two debutants for Australia in the recently concluded BGT series. They have been included in the squad along with the opener Nathan McSweeney who looked a little out of form in that series. Alex Carey will primarily take on the wicket-keeping responsibilities but will also have the services of Josh Inglis as a backup wicketkeeper option.

See also: Young swashbuckling Australian opener in danger of missing out on Sri Lankan tour

A look at the Australian Test Squad 

Steve Smith (c), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Travis Head (vc), Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Nathan McSweeney, Todd Murphy, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster

The 19-year-old Sam Konstas made an electrifying start to his international cricket career. The world took cognizance of his gutsy batting abilities when he made a dream debut against India in front of a full-house MCG and bashed the likes of Bumrah, Siraj, and Akash Deep to announce his arrival on the big stage.

But his blossoming career may soon encounter an unexpected halt as the Australian think tank is mulling over altering their opening combination ahead of the Sri Lanka Test series. 

See also: "Virat Kohli was very.." Sam Konstas praises Virat Kohli

Travis Head likely to open for Australia in the Sri Lanka Test series

As per reports from Yahoo Sports, the Australian management is reportedly eyeing to push Travis Head up the order and make him open the batting on subcontinent tracks. In his earlier tour to the subcontinent, Head performed poorly while batting in the middle order and recorded only 23 runs in three innings at a dismal average of 7.67.  The management believes that the 31-year-old is best suited to open the batting and dominate the new ball attack.

During the 2023 BGT Test tour to India, Head and Renshaw formed the opening combination when Warner got injured. In three innings, Head amassed 235 runs at an impressive average of 47 whilst marinating a commendable strike rate of 69. One of the most famous innings that he played on that tour at the top of the order was his counter-attacking 90* which helped Australia triumph in the Indore Test.

So what the future holds for young Konstas?

After a rollicking start to his international career, Konstas certainly comes across as a reliable opener instead of an out-of-sorts McSweeney who was axed mid-way through the series. But a drastic change in conditions in Sri Lanka will prompt the management to reconsider their opening combination before the start of the tour. 

Besides, Usman Khawaja is also likely to play a key role in helping Konstas adapt during the transition process. The Pakistani-born opener's place is highly valued in the side and his prior experience in subcontinent conditions will surely help the young Konstas shape his cricketer career a long way.

AUS-W vs SL-W Match Preview

The ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024 is off to a good start. Upholding champions Australia Women will open their campaign against Sri Lanka Women in the sixth match. Sri Lanka Women's team is off to a shaky start, losing their first game to Pakistan Women, and they will be looking to rebound against the Australians. Australia Women have won all seven previous games against Sri Lanka Women. The World Champions have only lost once in their last ten games and are in excellent form. 

AUS-W vs SL-W Match Details

Australia-W vs Sri Lanka-W – 5th Match, Women's World Cup 2024

Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah

Date & Time: 05th October 2024 at 03:30 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

AUS-W vs SL-W Venue Stats

AUS-W vs SL-W Pitch Report

The pitch is small, and the outfield is extremely fast. There isn't much for bowlers to work with, and both quick bowlers and spinners have struggled on this track.

AUS-W vs SL-W Weather Report

It will be a warm evening, and we expect a batting-friendly wicket where fast bowlers will struggle. 

AUS-W vs SL-W Last Five Matches

AUS-W vs SL-W Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Women's T20 World Cup 2024: India suffer a big defeat against New Zealand

AUS-W vs SL-W Probable Playing XIs:

Sri Lanka-W Probable Playing XIs

Chamari Athapaththu (c), Vishmi Gunaratne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kavisha Dilhari, Anushka Sanjeewani (wk), Nilakshi de Silva, Hasini Perera, Sugandika Kumari, Inoshi Priyadharshani, Sachini Nisansala, Udeshika Prabodhani

Australia-W Probable Playing XIs

Alyssa Healy (c & wk), Ellyse Perry, Beth Mooney, Ashleigh Gardner, Phoebe Litchfield, Grace Harris, Tahlia McGrath, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Wareham, Sophie Molineux, Alana King

Topmost Picks for AUS-W vs SL-W Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Australia-W

• Alyssa Healy – She has been part of two Women's ODI World Cup winning sides and six Women's T20 World Cup winning sides with Australia. 
• Ellyse Perry – Her all-round abilities continue to make her a vital component of her team's lineup. She has almost 2000 runs and almost 130 wickets in Women's T20Is.

Top Picks – Sri Lanka-W

• Chamari Athapaththu –  One of Sri Lanka’s best cricketers, Athapaththu has scored 369 runs in the last 8 innings at an average of 61.5 and a strike rate of 132.73.
• Kavisha Dilhari – Kavisha Dilhari is the leading wicket-taker for Sri Lanka W in the last 2 years. She has picked up 41 wickets in 40 matches and has an economy rate of 6.57. 

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for AUS-W vs SL-W Dream11 Team:

Alyssa Healy, Anushka Sanjeewani, Ellyse Perry, Tahlia McGrath, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Chamari Athapaththu, Ashleigh Gardner(C), Georgia Wareham, Kavisha Dilhari(VC), Annabel Sutherland, Udeshika Prabodhani

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for AUS-W vs SL-W Dream11 Team:

Alyssa Healy, Anushka Sanjeewani, Ellyse Perry(VC), Tahlia McGrath, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Chamari Athapaththu(C), Ashleigh Gardner, Georgia Wareham, Kavisha Dilhari, Annabel Sutherland, Udeshika Prabodhani

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Ashleigh Gardner, Chamari Athapaththu

Vice-captain – Kavisha Dilhari, Ellyse Perry

Wicketkeeper – Alyssa Healy

AUS-W vs SL-W Probable Winners:

In their most recent game, Sri Lanka Women struggled against a lowly ranked Pakistani side. They face a massive challenge in this competition and must pull up their socks against the best team in the world. Australia Women have a perfect record toward Sri Lanka and the best hitting lineup in the world. Based on their current form, the team is considered favorites in this game. Considering the team combination, Australia-W is expected to win this match.

AUS vs SL Match Preview

Australia and Sri Lanka meet in the fourth match of the 2023 Cricket World Cup on an afternoon at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. Australia’s batting has been a problem. With so many all-rounders in the team, the Kangaroos’ batting lineup has been exposed on tricky Indian pitches. Being bowled out for 199 in the first encounter and 177 in the second while chasing 312 in Lucknow. Bowling hasn’t been up to par, but they’ve done well in spurts. Sri Lanka’s batting has been excellent, with Kusal Mendis scoring 198 runs at a strike rate of 166.38. Sadeera Samarawickrama scored his first ODI century against Pakistan and has been fantastic for them alongside Kusal Mendis. Sri Lanka’s top four run scorers all have an average of 40 and a strike rate of 100.

AUS vs SL Match Details

Australia vs Sri Lanka – 14th Match

Venue: Ekana Cricket Stadium – Lucknow

Date & Time: 16th October 2023 at 02:00 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+ Hotstar

AUS vs SL Venue Stats

AUS vs SL Pitch Report

The pitch has a really even coverage of grass that could perhaps offer a bit of pace and bounce to the quicks which was also seen with some balls getting unexpected bounce.

AUS vs SL Weather Report

The first half of this game will be played in temperatures ranging from the low to mid-30s, with the sun shining brightly.

AUS vs SL Last Five Matches

SA vs SL Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

AUS vs SL Probable Playing XIs:

Australia Probable Playing XIs

David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Steven Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Alex Carey(wk), Gleen Maxwell, Sean Abbott, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazelwood

Sri Lanka Probable Playing XIs

Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis(c, wk), Pathum Nissanka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananajaya De Silva, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Kasun Rajitha, Lahiru Kumara, Dilshan Madushanka

Topmost Picks for AUS vs SL Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Australia

• Steven Smith – The right-handed stylish batter is playing some of his best cricket this year. He averages 35.42 across his career in ODIs but in 2023 alone he averages 64.11 in ODIs.
• Mitchell Starc – The pace bowler has taken a 5-wicket haul on two occasions in ODIs and he will enjoy the bounce and speed on offer from this venue.

Top Picks – Sri Lanka

• Kusal Mendis – The keeper-batter was already in strong form for Sri Lanka before he hit a remarkable 158 runs from 87 balls in the final warm-up game against Sri Lanka on Tuesday.
• Matheesha Pathirana – The 20 year old right arm fast bowler with a distinctive action took a 3 wicket haul against Pakistan during the Super Fours of the 2023 Asia Cup and big things are expected.

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for AUS vs SL Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis(C), Pathum Nissanka, David Warner(VC), Steven Smith, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Gleen Maxwell, Dhananajaya De Silva, Mitchell Starc, Dilshan Madushanka, Josh Hazelwood

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for AUS vs SL Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Gleen Maxwell(C), Dunith Wellalage, Mitchell Starc(VC), Dilshan Madushanka, Josh Hazelwood

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Kusal Mendis, Gleen Maxwell

Vice-captain – David Warner, Mitchell Starc

Wicketkeeper – Kusal Mendis

AUS vs SL Probable Winners

Both teams would have expected at least one win so far in the tournament, and it will be interesting to see if the team’s lack of confidence results in an exciting game. Australia is the type of team that can go from losing consecutive matches to winning an event in a flash. Our prediction is that Australia will be extremely focused in this game and will eliminate some of the careless fielding seen in the previous game. We expect Sri Lanka to be the better team at times, but Australia to win this game. Considering the team combination, Australia is expected to win this match.

Australia find themselves in a peculiar spot in the World Cup. No wins after two games and their captain looks to be struggling after a tough lead-up to the tournament. They have a bigger challenge now as Sri Lanka have done a fair job against Australia on spinning tracks before. Sri Lanka though are missing players and their injury list gets longer with their captain ruled out of the tournament now.

AUS vs SL Match Details

Date: October 16th, 2023

Time:  2:00 PM IST

Venue: Lucknow

AUS vs SL Weather Report

The weather looks pretty clear for the upcoming fixture.

AUS vs SL Pitch Report

Lucknow tends to spin pretty well but with dew normal at this time of the year batting second will be a better option.

AUS vs SL Head-to-Head

AUS vs SL Predicted Playing XI

SL Playing XI

Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya De Silva, Dushan Hemantha, Dunith Wellalage, Lahiru Kumara, Maheesh Theekshana, Kasun Rajitha

AUS Playing XI

David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Alex Carey, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Adam Zampa, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood

See Also: https://cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/crickets-biggest-event-kicks-off-as-a-generation-faces-off

AUS vs SL Key Players

Steve Smith

Australia will be wanting Steve Smith to go big. He is their best player of spin and he has been getting starts but is failing to convert. When the going gets tough he is usually the one they turn to and Australia will want him to step up desperately.

Dhananjaya De Silva

With Dasun Shanaka out, Dhananjaya De Silva is likely to have an increased bit of responsibility. While Shanaka’s batting form was a concern, his presence still made a difference and in his absence, Dhananjaya De Silva, who is likely to lead the side will have to do a lot more than he previously was to get Sri Lanka back on track.

AUS vs SL Match Tips

Turning tracks should put Sri Lanka ahead. With players missing and the bowling looking very light though, Australia could back themselves to get past Sri Lanka and register their first win.

Match Prediction: Australia Will Win the Match