Sri Lanka’s bowlers staged a remarkable comeback on the second morning of the first Test against England at The Oval, bowling out the hosts for 325 and reducing their deficit to 324 runs.
Resuming at 221 for 3, England collapsed to 6 for 35 in 56 balls, with poor shot selection and falling into Sri Lanka’s traps. Ollie Pope, who had scored a dazzling 103 not out overnight, pushed his score to 154 before being dismissed by Vishwa Fernando.
Harry Brook, who looked streaky on 8, added just four runs before skying a catch to Asitha Fernando. Vishwa Fernando also dismissed Jamie Smith, while Dhananjaya de Silva removed Chris Woakes and Gus Atkinson.
Pope brought up his 150 in just 151 balls, but Vishwa ended his knock with a short ball that Pope hooked to deep square leg. Debutant Josh Hull and Shoaib Bashir were the last two wickets to fall, giving Sri Lanka eight wickets in the morning session.
Sri Lanka’s fast-bowling coach, Aaqib Javed, had suggested his charges would “rest and come up with something better than this” after a dire opening day. The bowlers responded with greater patience and probing lines, making the ball swing and setting traps for the England batters.
By lunch on the second day, Sri Lanka had one run on the board for no loss after batting just one over before the break. The tourists will be hoping to continue their improved performance and make further inroads into England’s lead in the afternoon session.
