England collapsed to 156 all out in their second innings against Sri Lanka, setting a target of 219 for the visitors to win the Test match. Lahiru Kumara was the pick of the bowlers for Sri Lanka, taking 4-21. The sun was out at the Oval, providing good light for what promised to be an exciting final session.
Sri Lanka started their chase confidently, with Nissanka and Karunaratne scoring freely to reach 28-0 after the fourth over. England’s Ollie Pope struggled with DRS decisions but Nissanka looked in control, driving the ball well.
Chris Woakes, Jamie Smith, and Joe Root all made significant contributions to the England innings, but Sri Lanka’s bowlers kept the pressure on with tight lines and lengths. Dan Lawrence played some attacking strokes, including a straight six, before being dismissed for 35.
Asitha Fernando and Lahiru Kumara bowled well for Sri Lanka, while Vishwa Fernando was able to dismiss Root for 6. Lawrence continued to fight, finishing with 22 not out as England reached 56-2 at the end of the ninth over.
The match was finely poised going into the final session, with Sri Lanka needing 163 more runs to win with eight wickets in hand. The light was good, promising an exciting finish to the Test match.
The resumption of play was scheduled for 2:40 pm, setting the stage for what could be a thrilling conclusion to the match.
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Photo credit www.theguardian.com
