GALLE, Sri Lanka — Dinesh Chandimal managed to score an unbeaten 63 runs while Sri Lanka struggled to reach a total of 136 for five at lunch on Friday. This innings came in response to Australia’s massive first innings total of 654 runs for six wickets declared.

The morning session on Day 3 of the first Test was interrupted by rain, which did little to alleviate the challenges faced by Sri Lanka. They found themselves trailing by a substantial 518 runs at the lunch break.

The contrast between the two teams was evident. Australia’s batsmen displayed a level of patience and precision suited for the spin-friendly pitch, whereas Sri Lanka’s top order faltered and provided little resistance. Usman Khawaja’s double century, coupled with Josh Inglis’ impressive debut hundred and Steve Smith’s second Test century in Galle, set the visitors in a position of complete dominance.

Starting the day at 44 for 3, Sri Lanka’s hopes for a comeback quickly dwindled. Kamindu Mendis could manage only 15 runs before he edged a catch to wicketkeeper Alex Carey off the bowling of Mitchell Starc, who finished with figures of 2 for 13.

Sri Lankan captain Dhananjaya de Silva’s ill-advised attempt to charge down the pitch against spinner Matthew Kuhnemann resulted in his dismissal, adding to the team’s woes as he was stumped after a brief but notable partnership of 40 runs for the fifth wicket. His reckless dismissal drew an annoyed reaction from non-striker and former captain Chandimal.

Chandimal, showcasing his experience as a veteran right-handed batsman, displayed the discipline and focus necessary to hold his ground. He faced 115 balls, hitting nine boundaries in his innings and serving as a bright spot in an otherwise grim situation for Sri Lanka.