After Prabhath Jayasuriya, it was the turn of Angelo Matthews to save the day for Sri Lanka in the ongoing second day in Galle. The all-rounder's fighting knock of 76 has given Sri Lanka a slender lead heading into the fourth day. However the all-rounder could not kick on and post a big score. At stumps on day three Australia are favorites to take the series 2-0.
Earlier, Jayasuriya cast a spell on Australia's batters, as they could not cash in on the good work they did on day two. Jayasuriya hit the right lengths and managed to rip through the middle order. Australia started the day with 69 runs lead, with Smith and Carey at the crease, but could only add 88 runs as the off-spinner alongside Nishan Pieries picked up eight wickets among them.
If not for Alex Carey's brilliant 156, Australia could have been dismissed even below 400. However, whatever advantage the hosts got with the ball in hand, was wasted by Sri Lanka's top-order batters. Matthew Kuhnemann and Nathon Lyon swiftly picked up five wickets among them. Just when Matthews was threatening to take the game away from the visitors he was dismissed.
Australia closing in on a series whitewash
Chasing in sub continent is always tough and any total above 200 will be difficult for Australia to chase batting last, and just before the end of play, Lyon produced a piece of magic to send Matthews back to pavilion. Australia, now need just three wickets to win the match and the series.
Sri Lanka's last hope is only Kusal Mendis, but with no batters to support from other end, Australia would be hoping to take the rest of the quickly.
