Sri Lanka have their backs against the wall heading into the second and final Test against Australia.
The tourists have had their bowling attack depleted by a string of injuries that have ruled out three frontline seamers.
Australia vs Sri Lanka | 1 – 5 February | Manuka Oval, Canberra
To Win Match
Australia 1/7
Draw 9/1
Sri Lanka 8/1
Australia
Jhye Richardson’s impressive start to his Test career in the first Test at the Gabba should see him retained ahead of Peter Siddle.
It is unclear who will open the batting for Australia in this Test, with a number of options available to the Baggy Green – and none able to really impress in the role just yet. Marcus Stoinis has been added to the squad at the expense of Matt Renshaw – and is one of four or five potential openers.
Pat Cummins bullied Sri Lanka into submission in the first Test, but each of the home side’s quicks pose a threat to the tourists, who struggle against pace.
This Test will be the first ever played at the Manuka Oval in Canberra – and the pitch should offer plenty of aid for the quicks.
Sri Lanka
The injuries that ruled out Nuwan Pradeep, Dushmantha Chameera and Lahiru Kumara have left even more responsibility on the shoulders of Suranga Lakmal, who claimed a five-wicket haul at the Gabba in a losing effort.
Uncapped seamer Chamika Karunaratne has been called into the squad as a replacement for Kumara – and could be set to make his debut. Vishwa Fernando had been called in to replace Pradeep ahead of the first Test.
Batting has been a big problem for Sri Lanka on this tour – and after their innings defeat at the Gabba against the pink ball, it is hard to envision the side getting any worse.
Lahiru Thirimanne has shown an appetite for the fight, but few others in the top order have displayed the application necessary to be competitive.
Verdict: Australia 1/7
On their own turf, Australia are simply too strong for Sri Lanka. This contest is a mismatch.
