Joe Root hit a superb second century in the same game as England dominated Day 3 of the second Test against Sri Lanka at Lord’s in London.
Despite Sri Lanka’s efforts to chip away with wickets at regular intervals, they were unable to contain England’s momentum.
Root, who has been in sublime form, anchored the innings once again, scoring his 34th Test century, which also made him England’s leading century-maker in Test Cricket, surpassing the legendary Alastair Cook.
England’s second innings eventually concluded at 251, with the hosts setting a daunting target of 483 runs for Sri Lanka to chase down in order to square the series.
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Once again, Fernando was the pick of the bowling for Sri Lanka as picked up 3 for 52, while Kumara also bagged three scalps.
Sri Lanka’s chase got off to a shaky start, with Madushka falling early, edging a delivery to slip off the bowling of Atkinson. Things were not going well for them as Stone struck soon after, removing Nissanka cheaply, leaving them at 43/2.
The play was eventually called off early due to bad light, with Sri Lanka ending the day at 53/2, still needing a staggering 430 runs.
Karunaratne, who has had a quiet series so far, looked more composed at the crease this time with nightwatchman Jayasuriya.
