Pathum Nissanka’s sensational unbeaten century guided Sri Lanka to a consolation win in the third Test at The Oval, ending England’s 2024 tour on a high note.
>>Seamers, Nissanka shine as Sri Lanka eye famous win
Resuming their 2nd innings on 94/1, Sri Lanka needed 125 more to win. England found a breakthrough early when Bashir took a stunning catch to dismiss Kusal Mendis for 39, with just 14 runs added to the total.
However, Nissanka remained calm and composed, steering Sri Lanka back on top. After scoring a fifty in the first innings, he went on to register a magnificent century in the chase.
>>Dhananjaya and Kamindu salvage Sri Lanka’s position
The opener, along with veteran Angelo Mathews, put together an unbroken 111-run partnership, securing an 8-wicket victory on English soil.
Nissanka, who struck the winning runs, finished with an unbeaten 127 off 124 balls, including 13 fours and 2 sixes. Mathews played a solid supporting role, remaining not out on 35.
>>Pope century headlines on rain-hit first day
Pathum Nissanka, who amassed 191 runs in the match, was named Player of the Match. Despite Sri Lanka’s victory in the final Test, England won the series 2-1.
Joe Root and Kamindu Mendis were awarded Player of the Series for their respective teams.
