In the ongoing third Test between England and Sri Lanka at The Oval, the battle might seem to lack significance in terms of the series outcome, as Sri Lanka has already conceded the series. However, the intensity remains high, with both teams fiercely contesting every session. Sri Lanka, despite having lost the series, continues to show determination and resilience.
An unexpected moment unfolded during Sri Lanka’s first innings when the tailender Lahiru Kumara and fellow fast bowler Asitha Fernando were at the crease. Facing a bouncer from England’s fast bowler Olly Stone, Kumara was visibly rattled but managed to duck under the delivery.
The sharp bouncer from Stone, who is making a notable comeback in Test cricket, provoked a spirited response from Lahiru Kumara. On the stump mic, Kumara was heard urging Fernando to retaliate: “We need to give him a taste of his own medicine,” he said in Sinhalese, signalling his intent to hit back at Stone’s aggressive bowling.
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The last-wicket pair of Fernando and Kumara contributed 15 runs before Sri Lanka was bowled out for 263. This gave England a first-innings lead of 62 runs. England, having initially posted 325 runs, experienced a dramatic collapse after being well-placed at 261-3. The team lost seven wickets for just 64 runs, a stark contrast to their usual ultra-aggressive “Bazball” style of play that often brings them success.
— Shehan Sanjeewa (@Shehan64) September 8, 2024
Initially I thought it was the non-striker. But no, it was Lahiru.
— Rex Clementine (@RexClementine) September 8, 2024
Hope you heard what Asitha Fernando said to Lahiru Kumara through the stump microphone after that bouncer from Stone. ‘We need to give him a taste of his own medicine.’ I have actually omitted one word. Can’t put that here.
— Rex Clementine (@RexClementine) September 8, 2024
Stand-in captain Ollie Pope was a standout performer, scoring a magnificent 154 off 156 balls, with 19 fours and 2 sixes, marking his return to form. Despite Pope’s impressive knock, he was dismissed while attempting a risky shot. Opener Ben Duckett also contributed significantly with a brisk 86 off 79 balls.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers delivered a collective effort in response, with Milan Rathnayake taking 3 wickets and Vishwa Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, and Dhananjaya de Silva each claiming 2. The Sri Lankan bowlers showed resilience, claiming three early wickets in England’s second innings.
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While England is already 2-0 up in the three-match series, this Test remains crucial due to the significant World Test Championship (WTC) points at stake. Both teams are eager to perform well, making the final Test a key battle as they aim to secure valuable points in the ongoing WTC cycle.
