February 8, New Delhi After scoring an impressive century at No. 5 against Sri Lanka in Galle during the current second Test, Alex Carey has reiterated his view that he and fellow wicketkeeper Josh Inglis can both succeed in Australia’s Test squad.

On day two of the second Test, Carey, 33, and Steve Smith put up an unbroken fourth-wicket partnership of 239 runs, which put Australia in a commanding position at stumps. The visitors have a 73-run advantage with seven wickets remaining, further solidifying their control on the match.

After Inglis had to slip down after spending a lot of time off the field with back tightness, Carey was elevated up the order. He demonstrated his flexibility by scoring an incredible 139* off 156 balls.

News.com.au cited Carey as stating, “I think we’re both really clear in our roles in this team.” It was incredible to see Josh get his first Test century; he is a wonderful friend of mine. He is an excellent batter, and I believe we can both contribute if I continue to become better. There is no reason why we can’t do it in Test cricket, as we have done it in white-ball cricket.

Carey was at the opposite end as Inglis celebrated his Test debut century only a week before. After Inglis temporarily replaced Carey during the 2023 World Cup, the two wicketkeepers have been vying for the gloves. Carey maintains that there is room for both in the Australian Test system, despite their rivalry.

Carey is still most pleased with his keeping performance in the series so far, even if his batting display will take center stage.

“Definitely keeping,” Carey emphasized. “I believe my work behind the stumps in the first innings was solid, and that’s my main responsibility.”

Carey anticipates that the Galle pitch will continue to deteriorate, which will make the rest of the game even more intriguing.

“I believe it will begin to disintegrate. Big footmarks are starting to develop, and there is more activity on it now,” Carey said. On the first day, our bowlers did a fantastic job of controlling the run rate, particularly during the middle session, which gave us the upper hand. As the game progresses, we anticipate additional twists from the surface.