England v Sri Lanka: 2nd ODI- Review

Posted on July 1, 2011 by Matt H in 40/50-over

Sri Lanka 309/5 (50 overs) (Jayawardene 144, Sangakkara 69, Swann 2-42)

England 240ao (45.5 overs) (Morgan 51, Randiv 3-43, Lakmal 3-43)

In a sentence

Sri Lanka bounce back with a comprehensive victory over a limp England.

Player of the day

Showing the class that deserted him in the Test series, Mahela Jayawardene scored a professional 144 from 150 balls. Indeed, ‘professional’ may seem to undersell the century, but we use it in a positive sense: he scored quickly in a refined, easy manner, keeping the scoreboard ticking over and anchoring the innings. He was out in the 46th over, but Angelo Mathews ensured Sri Lanka reached 300.

 

Moments of the day

The day started with two silly run-outs when the Sri Lankans were attempting quick singles, but for England it was a strange day in the field, with several missed chances. Craig Kieswetter did take two stumping chances, as did Kumar Sangakkara, the latter including Eoin Morgan who had until then played superbly again. Both Suranga Lakmal and (of course) Lasith Malinga took wickets with exceptional yorkers and it was Malinga who took a splendid running sprawling catch at long on to dismiss the dangerous Kevin Pietersen.

Outlook for the third ODI (Sunday, Lord’s)

All square with three to play. Both sides’ performances contrasted with that of the first match, so it is hard to predict quite what will happen on Sunday. However England will expect their batsmen to transform healthy starts into big scores and will need a more consistent approach from their bowling attack. Sri Lanka’s bowlers have not had many plaudits on this tour and they will be immensely satisfied to have bowled their opponents out for 240 on a good batting track. If they revert to type, England will have a chance to regain the lead, but Sri Lanka should be confident of victory.