Joe Root Breaks England's Test Century Record as Team Sets Huge Target for Sri Lanka

Joe Root scored his 34th test century, surpassing Alastair Cook’s record, as England set a daunting target of 483 for Sri Lanka to win the second test at Lord's. Root scored 103 in the second innings, contributing significantly to England's total of 251. Sri Lanka faces a challenging task to avoid a 2-0 series deficit.

Joe Root hit a record 34th test century for England on Saturday, setting a significant target of 483 for Sri Lanka to win the second test at Lord's. The home side is aiming to level the three-match series.

England concluded their innings at 251 on the third day, with Root amassing 103 runs following his first-innings score of 143. This achievement made Root England's highest test centurion, surpassing Alastair Cook's record of 33 centuries.

Sri Lanka now faces an uphill battle to prevent going down 2-0 in the series. The highest successful chase in test cricket history stands at 418. England, starting the day under gloomy London skies, built on their lead but lost wickets at regular intervals. Key players like Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, and Harry Brook were dismissed before lunch, contributing to a challenging day for the batting lineup.

(With inputs from agencies.)