Sport Discussed

By Ben Phillips September 8, 2024

England’s hopes of securing a clean sweep in their three-match Test series against Sri Lanka were thrown into disarray after a dramatic collapse on Day 3 of the final Test in Colombo. Having built a strong platform at 191-2 in their first innings, England crumbled to 325 all out, and their second innings was no better, adding just 156 to set Sri Lanka a modest target of 219. By the close of play, Sri Lanka were comfortably placed at 94-1, making them firm favourites to win the match and avoid a series whitewash.

England’s Promising Start Unravels

The day began with England in a commanding position at 191-2, thanks to solid contributions from their top order. However, what seemed like a prime opportunity to build a match-winning total quickly turned into a nightmare as Sri Lanka’s bowlers tore through the middle and lower order. Spinners Prabath Jayasuriya and Ramesh Mendis were instrumental in the collapse, with England losing their remaining eight wickets for just 134 runs.

Ben Duckett, who had looked set for a big score, was dismissed for 86, while Joe Root and Harry Brook failed to make significant contributions. Only Ollie Pope got a score of any note, posting a fantastic 154 to continue his great record at the Oval. The rest of the batting lineup offered little resistance, with England eventually being bowled out for 325, well below what they would have hoped for given their strong start.

Second-Innings Struggles

With a first-innings lead of just 97, England needed to produce something special in their second innings to stay competitive in the match. However, Sri Lanka’s bowlers once again had the upper hand, as England slumped to 156 all out. Only Dan Lawrence (35) and Jamie Smith (67) offered any real resistance, but neither could build a match-defining innings.

Sri Lanka’s bowlers, particularly Kamaru and Vishwa Fernando, continued to exploit the conditions, with England’s batsmen unable to find answers. The collapse left Sri Lanka needing just 219 runs to win the match and restore some pride after losing the first two Tests.

England Face Tough Day Ahead

For England, the challenge on Day 4 will be immense. Despite already securing the series with a 2-0 lead, a win in the final Test would have capped off a dominant tour. However, their lack of runs in both innings has left them on the brink of defeat. The bowlers, led by Gus Atkinson and Chris Woakes, will need early breakthroughs on a pitch that still offers turn but is flattening out for the batsmen.

England captain Ollie Pope will be disappointed with his side’s collapse after their promising start, but the focus will now be on salvaging a remarkable win or making Sri Lanka work hard for their runs.

Sri Lanka Eye Consolation Win

Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will be eager to finish the series on a high. After being outplayed in the first two Tests, this match represents a chance for them to show their resilience and avoid the embarrassment of a whitewash on home soil. If Nusanda can steer them through the early stages of Day 4, Sri Lanka will likely march towards a well-deserved victory.

Conclusion

With Sri Lanka needing just 125 more runs and nine wickets in hand, they are strong favourites heading into Day 4. England will need a monumental bowling performance to pull off an unlikely victory, but with the series already won, their main focus will likely be on taking as much confidence from their tour performances as they can. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will be looking to close out a consolation win that would give them momentum moving forward.