England’s one-day international cricket woes continued with a second loss in game two of their bi-lateral series against Sri Lanka. The Colombo hosted encounter contrasted significantly from game one, where a flat pitch made for a high scoring encounter. Game two on the other hand was played on a much tackier, much trickier surface, and England’s flailing batsmen struggled to a limp 185 all out.
The sticky pitch was the perfect platform for the Sri Lankan spin attack to strangle and frustrate an England lineup grappling with the balance between aggressiveness and recklessness. Of their top order, only Joe Root (42) and Ravi Bopara (51) displayed any staying power. Bopara particularly, backing up his strong effort in the first cricket game, crafted a nicely paced half-century without any boundaries. This was after Alastair Cook and Ian Bell both failed again, heaping further pressure on their places in the side. Eoin Morgan too is under increasing pressure. He has failed to pass 50 in any of his last 14 innings.
England’s meek effort reeked of uncertainty and an inability to adapt their gameplan to reach a respectable target. Hard hands were never going to be suitable for this wicket as Bopara and Root proved as they executed deft flicks and deflections.
Sri Lanka’s response was classy. Cricket run machines Kumar Sangakkara (67) and Mahela Jayawardene (77) effortlessly manipulated bowlers and fielders to chase down England’s modest total for the loss of just two wickets. Jayawardene was man of the match for his match winnings knock, although the bowling of Tillakaratne Dilshan (2-32) and Ajantha Mendis (3-33) was also deserving of significant praise.
The sleepy run chase was conducted with that much ease it at times look nothing more than an open wicket practice for the veterans. Only Ali and Steven Finn, who was returning from injury, took wickets in an otherwise untroubled and clinical lesson in chasing a cricket total.
As the on day international cricket series heads to Hambantota, England need a confidence building win, whereas Sri Lanka will look to keep the foot firmly down on the throttle in their languid, handsome way.
Betfair:
Bet on Henrik Stenson to become the BMW PGA Championship Winner.
Paddypower:
Back Australia to take the Ashes home with them.
Betway:
Back Rafael Nadal to become the Mens French Open Winner.
Coral:
Back One For Arthur to win the Grand National.
Bet365:
Back Mexico to win the Confederations Cup.
