In an exciting day of Test cricket at the Oval, Sri Lanka finished the day at 94-1 chasing a target of 219 runs set by England. It was a competitive match with Sri Lanka needing 125 more runs to win and England requiring nine wickets on day four. Pathum Nissanka scored a brilliant half-century for Sri Lanka, and Kusal Mendis also contributed with some good shots.
England collapsed from 56-2 to 82-7 before Jamie Smith played a sparkling knock of 67 runs to give them a lead of 202 runs. However, Sri Lanka fought back well to dismiss Smith before tea. Lahiru Kumara was the standout bowler for Sri Lanka, taking 4-21.
Asitha Fernando and Vishwa Fernando bowled well for Sri Lanka to keep the pressure on England, but they missed a crucial opportunity to put the game in their favor. Sri Lanka will need a strong batting performance to chase down the target set by England on day four.
In other news, Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has joined Surrey to play in their upcoming fixture against Somerset at Taunton. Shakib’s addition will provide a boost to Surrey’s squad for the match.
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