Australia’s Alex Carey has etched his name in the history books! The wicketkeeper-batter became the first Australian keeper-batter to score 150 or more runs in a Test innings on Asian soil. This achievement surpasses the previous record held by Adam Gilchrist, who scored 144 runs against Sri Lanka in Kandy in 2004.
A Surprising Selection That Paid Off
Carey’s place in the playing XI for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka wasn’t initially guaranteed. The management had plans to give Josh Inglis a chance, considering his skills in spin-friendly conditions. However, fate had other plans! Travis Head was moved to the opening spot, which allowed both Inglis and Carey to feature in the squad.
A Knock to Remember
In the first Test match, Carey played a crucial knock of 46 runs*. However, it was in the second Test that he made history. Smashing 156 runs, he became the first Australian wicketkeeper-batter to reach this milestone in Asia.
Highest Scores by Australia’s Keeper-Batters in Asia
| Player | Runs |
|---|---|
| Alex Carey | 156 |
| Adam Gilchrist | 144 |
| Tim Paine | 92 |
| Ian Healy | 90 |
Mastering Spin & Breaking Records
For Carey, this wasn’t just another century—it was his first Test century on Asian soil. Initially, he had struggled against spinners, but this time, he managed to convert his start into something truly special. With this, he became only the second Australian keeper-batter to score a Test ton in Asia, joining Gilchrist, who has four centuries to his name.
A Partnership for the Ages
Carey’s innings ended at 156 runs, but not before he stitched a spectacular 259-run partnership with Steve Smith, who also played a captain’s knock of 131 runs. At one point, Australia was struggling at 91/3, but the duo completely turned the game around.
Despite Sri Lanka relying heavily on their spinners, they couldn’t stop Australia from gaining a convincing first-innings lead. This historic knock by Alex Carey not only saved Australia but also cemented his legacy as one of the finest keeper-batters in the game today.
Read More :
Newtopia Review: Jisoo & Park Jeong-Min’s Zombie Chaos Is Slapstick Fun
Steve Smith Hits 36th Test Century! Matches Dravid & Root’s Historic Feat!