Joe Root Breaks Record with 34th Test Century as England Dominate Sri Lanka

England took control in the second test against Sri Lanka at Lord's, with Joe Root scoring his 34th test century to surpass Alastair Cook's record. Sri Lanka, ending day three on 53-2, face an uphill battle to chase down England's massive target of 483 to level the series.

Joe Root etched his name into the annals of cricket history on Saturday, scoring his 34th test century to become England's leading centurion while helping his team tighten its grip on the second test against Sri Lanka at Lord's.

Sri Lanka found themselves in a precarious position, finishing day three on 53-2 as they chase a daunting target of 483 runs. The collapse began when Nishan Madushka and Pathum Nissanka were dismissed early, leaving Dimuth Karunaratne and Prabath Jayasuriya at the crease.

Root's heroic efforts, including scores of 143 and 103 in both innings, were complemented by steady contributions from teammates despite the gloomy London weather and under lights play. The series remains firmly in England's grasp, with historical odds stacked against Sri Lanka's chances of a record-breaking run chase.

(With inputs from agencies.)