Lahiru Thirimanne’s unbeaten 76 frustrated England as Sri Lanka fought back on the third day of the first Test in Galle.
Bowled out for 135 in the first innings, Sri Lanka showed great spirit to reach 156-2 – trailing by 130 – after England had posted 421.
Sam Curran and Jack Leach took a wicket apiece in Sri Lanka’s second innings, but off-spinner Dom Bess rarely threatened on a pitch that has offered assistance to spin since day one.
Kusal Perera contributed 62 to an opening stand of 101 with the patient Thirimanne, who was dropped on 51 by Dom Sibley at gully as he compiled his highest Test score since 2013.
The left-hander will resume alongside nightwatchman Lasith Embuldeniya on Sunday.
Resuming on 168, Root reached his fourth Test double century with the minimum of fuss.
He showed more intent than on day two – when he was happy for debutant Dan Lawrence to take more risks – hitting the third ball of the day to the cover boundary before driving down the ground for six.
It was almost fitting that Root reached 200 with a sweep for four – it was a productive shot throughout his innings, with 88 runs coming via sweeps and reverse sweeps.
.
Be the first to comment