Pundits laud England’s batting effort against Sri Lanka
Apr 6, 2019 at 2:18 PM
The English batsmen were up to the task yet again as the Sri Lankan bowlers were made to toil hard on a sunny day at Lord’s. Wicketkeeper-batsman Jonny Bairstow was the crux behind England’s batting force as he breezed past 150 with ease and grace. 2016 has been a fabulous year for Bairstow and the right-hander has already notched up three centuries so far.
Bairstow found able support in all-rounder Chris Woakes, who solidified England’s charge with a crucial knock of 66. Woakes stood around for 142 deliveries and his knock was worth the time spent in the middle. However, Sri Lanka too responded strongly as their top order put on a spirited performance. By the close of play on day 2, Sri Lanka stands at 162-1 in 49 overs. Opener Kaushal Silva is unbeaten on 79 and would want to get to a ton tomorrow.
The cricketing pundits in England lauded Bairstow for his fine performance on the second day. “Bairstow sees it as scratchy – we see it as nicely batted. And it’s a good job he was dropped because England would have been in real trouble. This middle order has got them out of jail.” “England haven’t had a great day. This isn’t a great return for winning the toss – sunny day, good pitch. Whether it’s enough depends on when we see Sri Lanka bat,” said the legendary Geoffrey Boycott.
Bairstow in a conversation stated that he was delighted with his performance in the middle. “I am delighted. It was a bit scratchy but sometimes you just have to find a way to get there. The ovation at the end was something special,” said Bairstow.
However, former England skipper Michael Vaughan wasn’t too optimistic about the underperforming Nick Compton. “He has struggled all summer. He needed a number on a true wicket against a straightforward attack.”It is a lonely world – international sport – when things are against you. He doesn’t bring energy at number three. He doesn’t have those gears.”