The second Test between Australia and Sri Lanka in Galle has witnessed a demolishing display from Australia's wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey who scored a vital 156 runs from 188 balls. Carey smashed 10 boundaries and 1 six in his crucial innings for the Australian team.
Sri Lanka were bundled out for a mere score of 257 in their first innings. In reply, Australia posted a mammoth score of 414 and got a comfortable lead of 157 runs.
During the third day of the match, in the 87th over of Australia's first innings, Alex Carey paddle-swept a delivery by Prabath Jayasuriya, bringing up his 150 runs, crossing the mark for the first time ever in first-class cricket.
The 33-year-old blended boldness and tenacity to surpass Adam Gilchrist's legendary record and post the greatest score by an Australian wicketkeeper in Asia.
The southpaw's 156-run knock surpassed Gilchrist’s 144 in Kandy back in 2004 as the highest individual score by an Australian keeper in Asia, cementing his growing reputation as a clutch performer.
Alex Carey was not the initial choice for the Sri Lanka series
For the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, Carey's place in the starting lineup was not assured. Josh Inglis, 29, was selected by the team management to play in the series since he has shown himself valuable in spin-friendly situations.
Ultimately, the keeper-batter was given his first Test match, but it's significant to note that Carey also found a position. Both cricket players were able to make an appearance in the starting lineup because of Travis Head's switch to opener.
Carey has showed his batting skills in the ongoing test match against Sri Lanka. The Australian wicket keeper has proved that he is a formidable player for Australia in the longer format as well.
