The highly anticipated first Test between Sri Lanka and Australia is set to kick off on Wednesday, January 29, at the iconic Galle International Stadium. This match marks the beginning of a two-Test series between the two teams. While Steve Smith will captain the Australian side in the absence of Pat Cummins, Dhananjaya de Silva will lead Sri Lanka as they look to make an impact on home soil.
Australia’s Recent Form and WTC Final Spot
Australia enters the series on the back of an impressive performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where they defeated India 3-1. Having already secured their spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final, Australia is gearing up to face South Africa at Lord’s Cricket Ground from June 11 to 16.
Sri Lanka’s Struggles in the WTC Cycle
Sri Lanka, on the other hand, has had a challenging 2023-2025 WTC cycle. With six losses in 11 matches, they are no longer in contention for a place in the final. Despite this, the hosts will aim to showcase their skills and end the cycle on a positive note.
Squads for the 1st Test
Sri Lanka Squad:
Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, Kamindu Mendis, Oshada Fernando, Lahiru Udara, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Sonal Dinusha, Prabath Jayasuriya, Jeffrey Vandersay, Nishan Peiris, Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Vishwa Fernando, Lahiru Kumara.
Australia Squad:
Steve Smith (c), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Nathan McSweeney, Todd Murphy, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster.
Match Details
- Date: Wednesday, January 29, 2025
- Time: Match starts at 10:00 AM IST; toss at 9:30 AM IST
- Venue: Galle International Stadium
Where to Watch the 1st Test
TV Broadcast:
The match will be telecast live on the Sony Sports Network.
Online Streaming:
Fans can catch the live streaming of the 1st Test on the SonyLiv app and website.
Get ready for an exciting clash as Australia looks to continue their dominant run, while Sri Lanka aims to make a strong statement at home.
