England on Brink of Victory as Sri Lanka Fights Back in First Test

England edges closer to victory against Sri Lanka in the first test. Mathews and Mendis lead a gritty resistance, helping Sri Lanka narrow the first innings deficit. England's Jamie Smith scored his maiden test century, putting the hosts in a strong position to take the lead in the three-match series.

England are on the verge of victory against a resilient Sri Lanka in the first test at Old Trafford. The visitors ended the third day on 204-6, with a slim lead of 82 runs.

Angelo Mathews (65) and Kamindu Mendis (56 not out) spearheaded a tenacious fightback to erase the 122-run first innings deficit. England, who earlier posted 358 thanks to Jamie Smith's maiden test century, are well-positioned to take the series lead on Saturday.

Initially trailing by 23 runs with four wickets in hand, England's Smith advanced from 72 not out to 111, becoming the youngest English wicketkeeper to score a test hundred. By day's end, Sri Lanka had slipped to 95-4 but managed to edge into the lead thanks to Mathews and Mendis's partnership before falling further. Sri Lanka must display similar resilience on day four.

(With inputs from agencies.)