What to Expect in the 2nd ENG vs SL Test: Three Critical Aspects
As England and Sri Lanka prepare to face off in the second Test at Lord’s, the series is finely poised. England secured a convincing win
Sri Lanka, once a formidable force in T20 cricket, has experienced its share of highs and lows. Despite a triumphant win in the 2014 T20 World Cup, the team has faced significant challenges in recent ICC events. The latest blow came on June 3, 2024, during the T20 World Cup in New York, where Sri Lanka registered their lowest total in T20Is. Let’s delve into Sri Lanka’s five lowest scores in men’s T20 internationals, highlighting the context and key performances of each match.
The most recent and painful low came on June 3, 2024, in the T20 World Cup game against South Africa in New York. Batting first, Sri Lanka was dismantled by a superb South African bowling performance. After Pathum Nissanka’s early dismissal, Kusal Mendis (19) and Kamindu Mendis (11) tried to stabilize the innings.
However, the dismissal of Kamindu in the eighth over led to a catastrophic collapse. Angelo Mathews (16) was the only other batsman to reach double figures, as Sri Lanka was all-out for an all-time low of 77. Anrich Nortje’s exceptional figures of 4/7, supported by Keshav Maharaj and Kagiso Rabada, who took two wickets each, were instrumental in this demolition.
During the tri-series involving India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh in February 2016, Sri Lanka faced another humiliating defeat. India, with Ravichandran Ashwin at his best (4/8), dominated the Sri Lankan batting lineup. Only Dasun Shanaka (19) managed to put up some fight against a well-rounded Indian bowling attack.
Sri Lanka’s total of 82 was never going to be enough against a strong Indian batting lineup. Shikhar Dhawan (46*) and Ajinkya Rahane (22*) ensured a comfortable victory for India.
In the 2010 T20 World Cup, Sri Lanka encountered Australia in a match that turned out to be a nightmare. Australia, riding on Cameron White’s explosive 85* off 49 balls, amassed 168 runs. The total was competitive, but not unreachable.
However, Sri Lanka’s batting lineup crumbled under the pressure of Australia’s relentless bowling attack. Tillakaratne Dilshan (20) was the only batsman to show some resistance, as the rest fell cheaply. Mitchell Johnson’s 3/15 was pivotal in dismantling the Sri Lankan innings for just 87.
The first T20I of the bilateral series in December 2017 saw Sri Lanka up against a strong Indian side. India, buoyed by KL Rahul’s 61, posted a formidable total of 180. The finishing touches were provided by MS Dhoni (39*) and Manish Pandey (32*), who accelerated in the latter stages of the innings.
Sri Lanka’s reply started on a decent note with Niroshan Dickwella (13) and Upul Tharanga (23) getting starts. However, their dismissals triggered a collapse, with the rest of the batting lineup unable to withstand India’s disciplined bowling. Yuzvendra Chahal (4/23) and Hardik Pandya (3/29) were the chief destroyers, as Sri Lanka were bundled out for 87.
In June 2021, Sri Lanka faced England in Southampton, a match that proved disastrous for the Islanders. England, batting first, set a daunting target of 180, thanks to stellar performances by Dawid Malan (76) and Jonny Bairstow (51). Despite Dushmantha Chameera’s impressive four-wicket haul, Sri Lanka struggled in their chase.
Sri Lanka’s innings lacked momentum from the start. While Binura Fernando (20) and Oshada Fernando (19) managed to get some runs on the board, the rest of the lineup faltered. England’s David Willey wreaked havoc with the ball, claiming three wickets and ensuring Sri Lanka’s collapse for a meager 91.
Want to stay ahead in the world of cricket? Explore our comprehensive Blog Post, insightful analysis, and the latest updates on all your favorite fixtures and more at JeetBuzz News. Don’t miss out and dive into the action now!
As England and Sri Lanka prepare to face off in the second Test at Lord’s, the series is finely poised. England secured a convincing win
The West Indies have once again proven their mettle in the T20 format, clinching yet another series victory against South Africa, making it their third
India’s squad for the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup has sparked conversations, especially around the selection of certain players whose recent performances and fitness levels