A five-wicket haul from debutant Scotty Muller and a blazing century from Michael Slater dominated today's proceedings here in Colombo. Bowling outswingers at good pace, our latest fast bowling prospect took advantage of his opportunity in making a dream debut for his country. Last night he was relieved at taking a wicket with his first ball for Australia, tonight he is pinching himself after a fantastic first-up performance. Built like one of the Gladiators, he bowls genuine outswingers, an attribute that will always stand him in good stead at any level, including the international stage. Although he is feeling a little weary from the heat, he looks strong and fit and should be able to have a further influence on the result tomorrow.

When he is batting well, there is no player more enjoyable to watch than our opening dynamo Michael Slater. On his day he gets pumped up and smashes unfortunate bowlers to all parts of a cricket field. Today was no exception as 'Slats' played both the pace men and the spinners with a ruthless arrogance reserved for the best of players. His form today is exciting with the all-important second Test starting next week in Galle.

Playing like a man determined to go into the Test in top form, 'Slats' looks ready to score heavily next week. We are all hoping this happens, not only because of the influence this will have on our prospects, but also for the sheer entertainment value of such time at the batting crease. His century and time in the middle for Mark Waugh have all the batsmen prepared for an improved performance in the second Test.

Our prospects look to be enhanced by the return to good health of our captain Steve Waugh. Today he had the stitches removed from his nose and from all accounts he is feeling better with every passing day. It was encouraging seeing him in the nets during the day, hitting balls and taking catches. If his improvement continues at the same rate as the past few days he should be leading us out at Galle in a couple of days time. This is good news for any Australian cricket fan or player who understands how important our captain is to this team.

As 'Punter' was thrilled with the victory of North Melbourne last night, our assistant manager and team scorer Mike Walsh was devastated with the news today that Essendon lost by one point. It must have been a thriller at the MCG but this did nothing to console 'Walshy' who is an avid Bombers fan. A North v Carlton grand final should be a good one next Saturday.

Finally for anyone who has been watching Foxtel over the last few weeks may have noticed the abundance of facial hair growing from the faces of the Australian cricket team since we arrived in Sri Lanka. Tonight the 'Aussie Beard of the Tour Competition' was judged with our fitness guru Dave Misson taking out the first prize. His effort of the world's largest sideburns gained the votes of the judges, while Slats' Dougie Parkinson rendition came second and my Abe Lincoln impersonation gained third prize. Some might say a good team bonding exercise, I would say a hard way to win 1000 ($20). All the same, come the second Test all the boys are likely to be back to their clean-shaven best.

From Colombo, JL