Joe Root showed his brilliance to battle to a 64th Test half-century to secure England a five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka on day four of the first Test at Emirates Old Trafford.
There had been only three successful fourth innings run-chases of more than 150 across 35 such Tests in Manchester but Root (62no) combined with Harry Brook (32), Jamie Smith (39), and Chris Woakes (8no) to make sure there was a fourth, chasing down the 205 target set by Sri Lanka.
The most integral moment came as Root shared a 64-run stand with an electric Jamie Smith, the young star finding four fours and one six to take away the tension.
The day had started with Kamindu Mendis (113) and Dinesh Chandimal (79) putting in a sensational 117-run partnership to help Sri Lanka into a 204-run lead, but it was not quite enough as the former England captain toughed it out on a tricky pitch.
England now head to Lord’s 1-0 up in the three-match series against Sri Lanka, the second Test getting under way on Thursday, August 29.
England vs Sri Lanka series:
- First Test: Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester – England win by five wickets
- Second Test: Lord’s, London – August 29-September 2 (11am start)
- Third Test: The Kia Oval, London – September 6-10 (11am start)
More to follow…
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