We lacked a bit of discipline in our batting says Steve Smith

30th July (CRICKETNMORE) - Australian Skipper Steven Smith blamed "lack of discipline" on the batting front for the 106-run loss to Sri Lanka in the first match in Pallekele on Saturday. Australia were bundled out for 161 on the fifth and final day in pursuit of a challenging 268 run target. This was the first defeat of Steve Smith as a captain in 12th match.

"We did quite well to bowl them out for 117, but we lacked a bit of discipline in our batting," Smith told reporters.

"We were in a good position to get a bigger lead than 86, but didn't get that," said a disappointed Smith.

"Kusal Mendis played an outstanding innings and took the game away from us. 267 against quality spinners was going to be tough task and we weren't up to that," said Smith.

"Pretty proud about the way Peter Nevill and Steve O'Keefe fought hard in the end. It wasn't easy. Some balls were skidding and some were spinning," said Smith. Also Check  Full Report of Australia vs SL First Test.

Smith admitted that Australia, who trail the three-match series, will have to find a way to tackle the spinning conditions.

Australia's last outing to the sub-continent saw them lose all four tests against India in 2013 and they also lost both matches when Pakistan hosted them for a two-test series in 2014 in the Gulf.

"We have got to find our plans and find ways to play in these conditions. 1-0 down in a three-match series so have to turn it around quickly," said Smith.

---

Saurabh