Josh Inglis Scores Hundred On His Test Debut
Australian cricketer Josh Inglis made a marvelous Test debut, with a century against Sri Lanka in the first Test at Galle on January 30, 2025. The nature of the surface in Galle quite often ensures a pitch that offers turn with excessive spin-bowler dominance, giving the expression “rank-turner”. However, Inglis played his own game against the spinners and scored a scintillating century having used just 90 balls-a clear demonstration of technique and temperament in a challenging circumstance.
The conditions in Galle for this Test were again expected to pose a challenge to any debutant, given that the pitch was supposed to break down and start turning by day three; yet, from the very start, it was clear that Inglis was up to the task at hand. Depending on the spinners, especially one bowled by Prabath Jayasuriya and Jeffrey Vandersay, Inglis’s innings was characterized by intelligent shot selection, effective mixing in both defence and aggression.
Inglis’s innings was cautious at the start because there was still an examination of both pace and bounce on the pitch. A settling in, and he was ready to unfurl varied sweeps, cuts, and drives to counter spin. His free-giving style was showcased in gully and leg-side boundaries, he dealt with spin superbly when it turned prodigiously.
This debut knock was not just about runs scored but how they were produced. With a speed-of-sound hundred scored in just 90 balls against one of the fiercest bowling attacks under home conditions, he made a bold statement about himself. His innings played a key role in building a strong foundation for Australia, who were quite eager to send a message in the series opener, especially after the checkered long and arduous history of subcontinental tours.
Having won him huge praises from rather all corners, including cricket analysts and former players alike, the innings of Inglis was a sight for sore eyes for all who witnessed it. The posts on X captured the glee and admiration with which his performance was met, with a good number opting to take note of just how vital it was to score an unbeaten century on debut in such testing conditions.
Inglis’s century was not only a personal milestone; it also came at a crucial moment for Australia of needing a new middle-order batsman with several stalwarts having retired. Not only had this introduced Inglis to immediate established selection, but it had answered various questions about the depth of their batting line-up in the subcontinent conditions where they have struggled.
The innings ended with Inglis receiving his Baggy Green cap from former Australian cricketer Geoff Marsh, providing an emotional touch to what was already a memorable day. Family members who were present to witness this historic moment, including his partner, son, and parents (who had immigrated with him from England at the age of 14), increased the emotional appeal.
In summary, the century by Josh Inglis on the spin pitch on debut against Sri Lanka is a tribute to his own skill, preparation, and mental strength. Not only did his performance give Australia a powerful start in the series, but it also made Inglis someone to keep an eye on in the future of Australian cricket.
Also Read: Josh Inglis Scores 50 On His Test Debut
