Sri Lanka Secures Historic Test Victory Over England with Nissanka’s Unbeaten Century
Sri Lanka achieved its fourth Test victory on English soil after opener Pathum Nissanka’s brilliant century guided the visitors to an eight-wicket win in the final Test at The Oval on Monday. Despite England winning the series 2-1, they missed the opportunity to complete a clean sweep of their international summer, having previously defeated the West Indies 3-0 in July.
Resuming the fourth day on 94-1, Sri Lanka required 125 more runs to clinch victory. They accomplished the task in under two hours, showcasing a clinical performance. The foundation for this success was laid on the previous day when Sri Lankan bowlers restricted England to 156 in just 34 overs, giving the visitors a modest target of 219 to chase.
Nissanka, who had previously scored his maiden Test century against the West Indies in 2021, played a pivotal role in this victory. His unbeaten 127 off 107 balls, adorned with 13 boundaries and two sixes, anchored Sri Lanka’s successful chase. His innings was marked by elegance and composure, as he reached his second Test century, celebrating the milestone with open arms, a kiss on his bat, and a glance to the sky.
This triumph not only marks a significant moment for Nissanka personally but also for the Sri Lankan team, which has historically struggled on English soil. Sri Lanka’s three prior victories in England came in 1998 at The Oval, in 2006 at Trent Bridge, and in 2014 at Headingley. Their latest victory seemed unlikely at the start of the match, as England had made a solid start, finishing day one on 221-3 after winning the toss in favorable bowling conditions. However, Sri Lanka capitalized on England’s lapses in concentration and reckless shots over the following days.
On Monday, the only wicket to fall was Kusal Mendis, who scored 39 before mistiming a pull shot that was caught by Shoaib Bashir off Gus Atkinson’s bowling. This wicket, however, did little to alter the course of the game. Nissanka was ably supported by Angelo Mathews, who remained unbeaten on 32 as the pair put on an unbroken partnership of 111 runs for the third wicket. Fittingly, it was Nissanka who sealed the victory with a boundary through the offside, a moment that capped a memorable performance for the tourists.
England’s failure to sweep the series can be attributed to their inability to maintain their intensity following a strong start to the match. After winning the toss and electing to bat in perfect conditions, they would have expected a larger first-innings total. However, lapses in focus, combined with excellent bowling from the Sri Lankan attack, meant that England’s progress stalled, leaving the visitors with a manageable target.
Nissanka’s stellar performance has raised questions about why he was not included in the starting XI for the first Test of the series at Old Trafford. He was only recalled for the second Test at Lord’s, where he immediately demonstrated his class. His contribution in this match has underscored his value to the Sri Lankan team, particularly in challenging conditions away from home.
For Sri Lanka, this victory is a significant morale booster as they continue to rebuild their team. It demonstrates their ability to compete at the highest level, even in conditions that have traditionally favored their opponents. While England will be disappointed to have missed out on a series sweep, their overall summer remains successful, with notable victories against the West Indies earlier in the season.
In conclusion, Sri Lanka’s victory at The Oval, powered by Nissanka’s brilliant century, serves as a reminder of the unpredictability and excitement that Test cricket offers. While England secured the series, this result will provide Sri Lanka with immense satisfaction as they look to build on this success in the future.