England gained an early advantage in the Test match after their bowlers restricted Sri Lanka to 263 in response to the hosts’ first-innings total of 325.
However, Sri Lanka’s pace attack turned the game around on day three, reducing England to 69/5, which quickly became 82/7. A counter-attacking 67 off 50 balls from Jamie Smith helped England recover and set up a respectable lead.
Despite being bowled out for 156, England set Sri Lanka a challenging target of 219 runs, which was tough considering Sri Lanka had only one successful chase above 200 outside Asia.
Nissanka reached his half-century off just 42 balls, adding to his impressive 51-ball 64 from the first innings. Alongside Kusal Mendis, he helped Sri Lanka make significant inroads into the target by the end of day three.
Shoaib Bashir’s stunning catch early on day four ended the dangerous partnership, dismissing Mendis for a quick 37-ball 39. However, Nissanka continued to dominate, scoring an unbeaten 127 and, with Angelo Mathews, led Sri Lanka to victory. For more information:
