Witness history as Steven Smith reaches 10000 Runs and scores a magnificent century in Galle. Read more about this incredible sporting achievement.
Steven Smith Reaches 10000 Runs in Test Cricket
Stand-in captain Steven Smith marked a historic milestone by scoring his 10,000th Test run before celebrating the occasion with a majestic century. Usman Khawaja also played a stellar role, reaching his 16th Test ton, as Australia took an aggressive approach against Sri Lanka’s spin-heavy attack on a slow Galle surface.
At stumps on day one, Australia was in a commanding position at 330 for 2, with play cut short due to rain after 81.1 overs. Smith and Khawaja built an unbroken 195-run partnership for the third wicket, making the perfect start in Australia’s bid for their first series victory in Sri Lanka since 2011.

Smith’s Historic Moment and Commanding Century
Having averaged 66 in 38 Tests as captain, Smith slotted effortlessly into the top job in the absence of Pat Cummins. His form was perfect, completing his half-century in 57 balls before steering Sri Lanka through Prabath Jayasuriya’s clever defensive tactics carefully.
See also: Steven Smith Holds Fort as Australia Edge Day 1 of Boxing Day Test
Smith had started the Test with 9999 runs, having been just one short of the landmark in the fifth Test against India at his home ground, the SCG. However, he wasted no time at all this time, reaching the milestone with a flick to mid-on just before lunch. He thereby joined the rather exclusive group of Australians who had scored over 10,000 runs in Tests-Ricky Ponting, Allan Border, and Steve Waugh. He modestly waved his bat to acknowledge the feat as teammates and fans gave him a warm ovation.

The right-hander had a close call soon after when he offered a return catch to Jayasuriya, who spilled the chance. That proved to be Sri Lanka’s loss, as Smith capitalized and played with authority. His 35th Test century came in style, making it three tons in his last seven Test innings. See also: Khawaja, Inglis Shatter Sri Lanka’s Hopes

Khawaja Ends Century Drought with Gritty Knock
Usman Khawaja, after struggling for form against India, silenced his critics with a well-compiled century. The 38-year-old showed great intent and control, using the reverse sweep effectively. He reached his ton in 135 balls, celebrating with visible emotion—raising his helmet and pumping his fists.
Sri Lanka’s sloppiness in the field gave Khawaja plenty of lifelines. He survived two dropped catches off an increasingly frustrated Jayasuriya and had a fortunate escape on 74 when Sri Lanka failed to review an edge to wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis.

Sri Lanka’s Bowling Struggles and Defensive Tactics
It had been an uphill two-Test series start for Sri Lanka, as they did not field well, squandered precious reviews, and could not control the Australian run rate that ballooned to an impressive 4.35 an over through the first two sessions.

This legspinner Jeffrey Vandersay briefly threatened before lunch with sharp turn, but rest of the attack lacked penetration. Jayasuriya, who had destroyed Australia at same venue with a 12-wicket haul on debut in 2022, bowled defensive leg-stump lines in a desperate attempt to curb Australia’s scoring.
Even the introduction of the second new ball provided little relief, as play was soon halted due to rain.

Aggressive knock by Travis Head sets the tone
Head was pushed up the order in a controversial move that left out 19-year-old Sam Konstas, played aggressively scoring 57 off 40 balls. He batted with a tempo akin to Big Bash League, which set the tone early on; however, he fell attempting to clear long-on off Jayasuriya.
Head had an early scare when he survived an lbw appeal off Asitha Fernando, with Sri Lanka choosing not to review—another missed opportunity for the home side.

Tactical Moves and Team Selection
Australia have opted for a side full of spins including Todd Murphy and Matthew Kuhnemann along with frontline spinner Nathan Lyon. The only paceman in the side is Mitchell Starc while allrounder Beau Webster gives that extra seam and spin to the side.
Despite an outstanding display against India at SCG Test, Scott Boland has been excluded from the action, which surprised a lot of people.
What’s next?
With Australia dominating proceedings so far, the onus now is on Sri Lanka to fight back. The hosts will need quick wickets early on Day 2 if they do not want to fall further behind. However, with Smith still going great guns and Khawaja settled, Australia are well-placed to push for a massive first innings total.