England vs Sri Lanka, 3rd Test Day 2: Highlights - Reddy Anna

The third and final Test between England and Sri Lanka continued with a thrilling Day 2, where Sri Lanka, led by captain Dhananjaya de Silva, fought hard to stay in contention - Reddy Anna. Fifties from de Silva and Kamindu Mendis were the highlights of Sri Lanka’s innings, as they managed to stay afloat despite England’s relentless bowling.

England Takes Early Advantage

England wasted no time in breaking Sri Lanka's overnight partnership. Josh Hull, who had dropped de Silva on Day 1, redeemed himself by taking the wicket of the Sri Lankan captain early in the day. Rain briefly interrupted play, but after the restart, Chris Woakes struck, dismissing Kamindu Mendis, who had been a steady presence at the crease. England’s bowlers continued to apply pressure, preventing Sri Lanka from adding too many runs and wrapping up the innings quickly, maintaining a 62-run lead.

England's Aggressive Approach

England’s batting response was nothing short of aggressive. Dan Lawrence came out swinging, attacking almost every delivery but struggling to make consistent contact. Ben Duckett played a couple of impressive shots but was dismissed early. Lawrence, despite surviving some close calls, saw his partner Ollie Pope fall right before lunch. Lahiru Kumara's introduction into the attack proved to be a masterstroke for Sri Lanka. Kumara, bowling just one over, delivered a crucial blow to England by dismissing Pope, who dragged a ball onto his stumps, leaving the hosts at 35/1 at the break.

Lunch on Day 3: A Balanced Contest

As lunch was called on Day 3, England held a slight advantage in the match, but Sri Lanka’s timely wickets kept them in the contest. The first session saw a mix of everything—rain, clouds, sunshine, and wickets falling intermittently. England’s aggressive approach with the bat hinted at their intent to push for a strong lead, but Sri Lanka’s bowlers were determined to exploit any openings.

Key Moments

Early Breakthroughs: England wasted no time in taking wickets, with Josh Hull and Chris Woakes removing key Sri Lankan batters early.
Kamindu Mendis and Dhananjaya de Silva: Both played important innings for Sri Lanka, scoring fifties to give the visitors a fighting chance.
Lahiru Kumara’s Timely Strike: Kumara’s introduction right before lunch worked like magic, as he removed England captain Ollie Pope, keeping Sri Lanka in the game.

What to Expect Next

As the second session looms, England will continue their aggressive approach, looking to build a substantial lead, while Sri Lanka will aim to take early wickets and restrict the hosts. With plenty of action left in the game, Day 3 promises more excitement as both teams battle to gain the upper hand.

Credit- https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/cricket/story/england-vs-sri-lanka-3rd-test-day-2-live-score-ollie-pope-2595600-2024-09-07

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