Manchester, United Kingdom (AFP) — As the first Test between England and Sri Lanka nears its climax, England has been set a challenging target of 205 runs to clinch victory. The defining moment unfolded on the fourth day of the intense match at Old Trafford, after England successfully bowled out the tourists for 326 in their second innings.
Kamindu Mendis emerged as the standout performer for Sri Lanka, scoring an impressive 113 runs. This remarkable innings marks Mendis’s third century in just his fourth Test appearance. Entering the fray with Sri Lanka reeling at 95-4, and having previously been in a dire position at 1-2, Mendis’s resilience and skill shone through as he stabilized the innings.
Mendis formed a crucial partnership with Dinesh Chandimal, who contributed a solid 79 runs. Their seventh-wicket stand of 117 runs in 30 overs was pivotal in pushing Sri Lanka to a more competitive total. However, the dismissal of Mendis triggered a swift breakdown in Sri Lanka’s batting line-up. They lost their last four wickets for a mere 19 runs, with Chandimal being the final wicket to fall, caught off the bowling of Matthew Potts.
Potts, the Durham paceman, had been recalled to the team after England’s captain Ben Stokes was sidelined with a torn hamstring. Potts made the most of this opportunity, claiming 3 wickets for 47 runs in 17.3 overs, significantly contributing to England’s push for victory.
This Test is the first of a three-match series, setting up what promises to be a captivating contest between the two cricketing nations. As the final day approaches, all eyes will be on England’s batting line-up as they chase down the target of 205 runs to secure the first Test win.
