Sri Lanka is currently facing off against England in the second One Day International (ODI), and the excitement is palpable as we keep you updated on the score and pivotal moments.
At 9:58 AM, a crucial moment unfolded: Wicket! Nissanka was caught by Jacks off Rashid's bowling for 26 runs, marking a significant breakthrough for the English team just as the Sri Lankan partnership was gaining momentum. Attempting a risky shot over the offside, Nissanka lost control, resulting in an easy catch for Jacks to his left. The fall of wickets is now at 58 for 2.
Moving on to OVER 14: The score stands at SRI 57/1 with Nissanka at 26 and Mendis at 23. Bethell bowled a stunning delivery that pitched on middle and turned sharply, almost leading to a stumping opportunity for Buttler, but he mishandled the ball as Mendis's back foot was close to the crease. Shortly after, Mendis cut a ball outside off stump for four, bringing the Sri Lankan total to 50, showing they can still score despite the pressure. This was followed by a loose ball from Bethell, which Mendis capitalized on with a fine sweep for another boundary. England had been doing well to limit boundaries, but it seems that two came at once, much like London buses.
In OVER 13, the score reads SRI 49/1 with Nissanka on 26 and Mendis on 15. The pair is steadily building their innings; although runs are not flowing freely, they are rotating the strike effectively. England will be hoping to dismiss Mendis soon, particularly considering his critical role in the previous match.
By OVER 12, the score has moved to SRI 45/1, with Nissanka at 25 and Mendis at 12. England's captain Harry Brook has made several changes in bowling strategy since Thursday, bringing Jacob Bethell onto the field as their sixth bowler in just twelve overs. Mendis managed to score two runs from a sweep but came dangerously close to being out as a delivery nearly struck his pads.
As we enter OVER 11 with SRI 40/1 (Nissanka 23, Mendis 9), Adil Rashid, England’s star bowler, steps in for his first over of the day. Mendis appears to be settling into the innings, playing the role of anchor much like he did previously.
In OVER 10, the score stands at SRI 36/1. Will Jacks, who missed the first ODI due to illness, is back in play. His first delivery was short, and while Mendis pulled it, Ahmed made a splendid stop to prevent a boundary. Nissanka took advantage of a poor delivery from Jacks, hitting a solid pull shot for four runs, ending the first powerplay successfully.
As we approach OVER 9, the score is SRI 29/1. With only two overs left in this powerplay, Dawson has been impressive, conceding only three runs in his last over. His final delivery turned sharply away from Nissanka, narrowly missing the off stump, hinting at what could have been.
In OVER 8, the score is now SRI 26/1 with Nissanka on 15 and Mendis on 3. Nissanka attempted a big swipe but failed to connect, reflecting the mounting pressure from the England bowlers. He then capitalized on Curran’s slower ball, smashing it over long-on for six, relieving some of the tension built up.
As we reach OVER 7 with SRI 18/1, Liam Dawson has entered the attack, and there's a slip in place. After an economical performance in the first ODI, he began today’s spell with a maiden over, showcasing his skills early on.
In OVER 6, the score remains SRI 18/1. Curran continues to bowl tightly to Mendis, allowing only one run in that over. England must be pleased with their disciplined start, keeping the run rate low.
