Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has unveiled the fixtures for Australia’s upcoming tour of Sri Lanka, slated for January-February 2025. The series includes two crucial Test matches as part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, along with a single ODI.
Crucial Series for WTC Standings
Australia, currently second in the WTC standings with 90 points, and Sri Lanka, ranked third with 60 points, are both in the race for a spot in the WTC final. The series provides a vital opportunity for both teams to secure points as they edge closer to the end of the WTC cycle.
Sri Lanka vs Australia Series Schedule
The two Test matches will take place in Galle, a historic venue for Sri Lankan cricket. The first Test is scheduled for January 29-February 2, followed by the second from February 6-10. These matches are expected to be fiercely competitive, with each team striving for maximum WTC points. The tour will conclude with a standalone ODI match on February 13, though the venue for this limited-overs game is yet to be finalized.
Series Schedule:
- First Test: January 29 – February 2, Galle
- Second Test: February 6-10, Galle
- Only ODI: February 13 (Venue TBD)
Australia’s squad is expected to arrive in Sri Lanka on January 20, following their home Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against India.
Australia Retains Leadership for Next Cricketing Cycle
In related news, Cricket Australia has confirmed the retention of skipper Pat Cummins and head coach Andrew McDonald, extending their contracts until 2027. Under Cummins’ captaincy and McDonald’s coaching, Australia has clinched three ICC titles. This extension underscores Cricket Australia’s satisfaction with the leadership duo as the team eyes continued success in the next four-year cycle.