England Poised for Victory as Sri Lanka Fights Back in Gritty Test Match

England is close to securing victory over Sri Lanka in the first test at Old Trafford. Despite resilient performances from Sri Lankan batsmen Angelo Mathews and Kamindu Mendis, England remains in a strong position, having bowled out the visitors for 204-6 in their second innings. Jamie Smith's maiden test century has been a highlight.

England appears set for a win against Sri Lanka in the first test, with the visiting team at 204-6 by the end of the third day at Old Trafford, holding a narrow 82-run lead.

Angelo Mathews (65) and Kamindu Mendis (56* not out) spearheaded Sri Lanka's resilient innings, erasing the 122-run deficit from their first innings. England, earlier dismissed for 358, saw Jamie Smith score his first test century, bolstering their chances of leading the three-match series.

Starting the day with a slim lead, Smith went from 72 not out to 111 off 148 balls, becoming the youngest English wicketkeeper to hit a test hundred. England extended their lead despite quick wickets, with tail-enders Mark Wood and Matthew Potts contributing significantly. In reply, Sri Lanka struggled, losing wickets cheaply, though some resistance was seen from Mathews and Mendis.

(With inputs from agencies.)