Chris Tremlett led England to a sensational victory as they defied all elements to beat Sri Lanka by an innings and 14 runs in the first Test at Sophia Gardens yesterday.
Sri Lanka were skittled out for just 82 in their second-innings, with fast-bowler Tremlett taking the first three wickets to fall on his way to a return of four for 40 in 10 overs on the final day. Off-spinner Graeme Swann followed up with four wickets for 16 runs in seven overs as Sri Lanka’s dramatic collapse continued.
Stuart Broad finished off the match with two wickets in three balls, the tourists’ second-innings ending in the 25th over in under two dramatic hours.
England’s victory in their first Test since a 3-1 Ashes triumph on Australia was achieved despite rain, which fell throughout this match, washing out nearly a whole day’s play in total.
England now head to Lord’s for their second Test against the tourists, with a 1-0 up
advantage in the three-match series, which starts on Friday.
Published in The Express Tribune, May 31st, 2011.
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