Cricket: Anderson, Panesar shine in tour opener

COLOMBO: Fast-bowler James Anderson and spinner Monty Panesar warmed up for England’s two-Test series against Sri Lanka with rich hauls in the tour opener in Colombo. Left-armer Panesar claimed five for 37 and Anderson took four for 19 as England bowled out Sri Lanka Board XI for 169 on the first day of the three-day match at the Premadasa stadium. The tourists were six for no loss before bad light ended play early. Anderson picked up the first four wickets before Panesar cleaned up the tail as the home team, led by Test wicket-keeper Prasanna Jayawardene, failed to settle in after electing to take first strike.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 16^th, 2012.