Sri Lanka vs Australia

Watch: Roof Collapses at Galle International Stadium amid heavy rain on Day 2

Rain threatened to play spoilsport during the second day of the first Test between Sri Lanka and Australia. It began pouring down heavily just an hour and a half before the scheduled start of the day’s play. As a result, the makeshift grandstand roof also collapsed. Thankfully, no one was present when it collapsed, avoiding a massive embarrassment for the home board. The heavy rain and wind also delayed the start of Day’s play.

As per a Guardian report, the rain began to blow sideways. Besides, the photos on social media show how the terrifying weather has led to a chaotic situation, especially around the makeshift stand. The seats have been crushed. The entire roof has almost been dismantled.

#Srilanka : Current #weather in Galle Day 2 : The temporary Pavilion at the #Galle International Cricket Stadium has been damaged due to strong winds accompanied by rain. #SLvAUS pic.twitter.com/TJPYfFETr9

— Priyatharshan 🌏 (@priyatharshan1) June 30, 2022

The struggle did not end there as the pouring rain meant that the groundsmen had to ensure the grounds were covered throughout. The heavy rains made their task even more difficult with the gust of wind forcing it everywhere.

Around 12:30 PM IST, the covers were finally removed with the sun also coming out gradually at the Galle International Stadium. Despite improved weather, it took some time before the play resumed on Day 2.

The first day of the Test belonged to Nathan Lyon as he picked up 5 wickets for 90 runs. Mitchell Swepson picked up 3 wickets for 55 runs as Australia restricted  Sri Lanka to 212 in the first innings. Australia ended Day 1 with the score of 98-3. The visitors managed to score 313 for the loss of eight wickets at the end of the second day, leading by 101 runs.

Australia and Sri Lanka will play two Test matches in the series. Australia are the only unbeaten side in the World Test Championship cycle of 2021-2023 so far and are eyeing a spot in the final.

The Pat Cummins-led side are touring Sri Lanka as the country is going through its worst economic crisis ever. The limited-overs leg of the tour saw Sri Lanka beat Australia for the first time in an ODI series at home since 1992. Thus, giving Sri Lankan fans something to rejoice about amid these testing times.