SL vs AUS Match Prediction: Who Will Win Today’s 2nd Test Between Australia And Sri Lanka?

Australia and Sri Lanka will face for the 2nd Test on February 6 [Source: @cricketcomau, @OfficialSLC/X.com]

After humiliating Sri Lanka in the 1st Test at Galle, Australia is ready to take on them again for the second and final Test of the two-match series. The match will be played at Galle International Stadium on February 6 and fans can catch the live action from 10 AM IST.

Australia

Australia will enter the second Test brimming with confidence after their dominant innings-and-242-run victory in the series opener. With Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith, and debutant Josh Inglis showcasing their batting dominance, the visitors will look to continue their aggressive approach. 

The Baggy Greens' spin duo of Nathan Lyon and Matthew Kuhnemann, who dismantled Sri Lanka in both innings, will once again be key on turning tracks. A win in the second Test will ensure a series sweep and further establish Australia's dominance in subcontinental conditions as they head towards the WTC Final in June.

Sri Lanka

For Sri Lanka, the challenge is to recollect their dismantled team effort and put up a stronger fight after their crushing defeat. Their batting faltered under pressure, and apart from Jeffrey Vandersay's spirited fifty, and Dinesh Chandimal's 72-run knock in the first innings, there were no significant contributions. 

The hosts must find a way to counter Australia’s spinners while also ensuring their own bowling attack makes early inroads. With the series on the line, Sri Lanka will be desperate to bounce back and prove they can stand up to the formidable Australian unit.

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SL vs AUS: Head-To-Head In Test

How will the Galle International Stadium pitch behave?

The Galle International Stadium pitch saw considerable turns in the 1st Test with spinners from both sides dominating the match. The turning track will likely again be a factor for the 2nd Test as well. As the ball gets old, spinners will come into play after seamers enjoy their share early in the match.

As the pitch wears down, it will become tough for the batters to utilise their full potential as spinners will be breathing fire by then. Hence, the toss-winning captain would likely opt to bat first and make the most use of the pitch early.

Players to watch out for in SL vs AUS 2nd Test

Key Players For Sri Lanka

Jeffrey Vandersay

The leg-spinner had a decent outing with the ball in the first Test (3/182) but showed his potential with the bat, scoring a counter-attacking 53 off 47 balls in the second innings. His ability to turn the ball and deceive batters could be vital against Australia's aggressive approach. If Vandersay can strike early breakthroughs and contribute with the bat, he could be a game-changer for Sri Lanka.

Prabath Jayasuriya 

Despite conceding runs at a high economy, Jayasuriya remains Sri Lanka’s premier spinner and will be crucial in the second Test. His ability to bowl long spells and trouble batters with his accuracy and subtle variations can help Sri Lanka put pressure on Australia. If he finds his rhythm, he could be the key to restricting Australia's strong batting lineup.

Dinesh Chandimal

One of Sri Lanka’s most experienced batters, Dinesh Chandimal showed resilience with a well-made 72 in the first innings. His ability to absorb pressure and build partnerships will be crucial in tackling Australia’s world-class bowling attack. If Sri Lanka is to post competitive totals, Chandimal will need to step up once again and lead from the front.

Key Players For Australia

Matthew Kuhnemann

The left-arm spinner, Matthew Kuhnemann, was Sri Lanka’s biggest nightmare in the first Test, claiming nine wickets across both innings. His ability to extract sharp turn and keep the batters under constant pressure makes him a key threat. If Sri Lanka fails to counter him, Kuhnemann could once again wreak havoc.

Nathan Lyon

The veteran off-spinner complemented Kuhnemann brilliantly, picking up seven wickets and stifling the Sri Lankan batters with his accuracy. Nathan Lyon's vast experience in subcontinental conditions allows him to exploit any cracks in the pitch. Lyon’s ability to bowl long spells and create relentless pressure will be crucial in the second Test.

Usman Khawaja

The left-handed opener displayed immense composure in the 1st Test, playing a marathon knock of 232, which completely deflated Sri Lanka. His ability to counter spin effectively makes him Australia’s most reliable batter on these surfaces. If Khawaja gets going again, Sri Lanka’s bowlers could be in for another long grind.

Today's Match Prediction: SL vs AUS 2nd Test

Predicted Top Performers

Sri Lanka: Jeffrey Vandersay, Prabath Jayasuriya, Dinesh Chandimal
Australia: Matthew Kuhnemann, Nathan Lyon, Usman Khawaja

SL vs AUS 2nd Test: Predicted Score

Predicted first innings score: 320-330
Predicted second innings score: 290-300
Predicted third innings score: 230-240
Predicted fourth innings score: 150-160

Predicted Result: The team choosing to bat first will likely have the upper hand in this match.

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