Sri Lanka Ends Decade-Long Wait with Victory Over England

Sri Lanka tasted victory at The Oval as openers Pathum Nissanka and Angelo Mathews led the team to a significant win, ending a ten-year wait to defeat England in Test cricket. Nissanka's unbeaten 127 and Mathews' support helped Sri Lanka avoid a series whitewash and rectify a decade-old disappointment.

Before this match, Sri Lanka had not managed to beat England in Test format since 2014. This elusive victory was secured today as Sri Lanka chased down a target of 219 runs, winning the final Test of the series by 8 wickets. England had already secured the series victory by winning the first two Tests.

On the fourth day of the match, Sri Lanka needed 125 runs to win, while England required 9 wickets to complete a 3-0 series sweep. Play resumed with Kusal Mendis, who was unbeaten on 30 the previous day, adding just 9 more runs before being dismissed. After Mendis's departure at 108 runs, Angelo Mathews joined Pathum Nissanka at the crease.

Sri Lanka had faced several batting collapses throughout the series, but the second innings at The Oval saw a remarkable turnaround, particularly from Nissanka. He played a stellar innings of 127, and along with Mathews, who contributed significantly, ensured a comfortable win. The pair added 111 runs for the match-winning partnership.

Sri Lanka wrapped up the Test in just four days, with England's first innings total of 325 runs, bolstered by a century from captain Ollie Pope. Sri Lanka responded with 263 runs, and England's second innings concluded at 156 runs. The victory was a significant achievement for Sri Lanka, ending their long wait for a Test win against England and providing a satisfying conclusion to their tour.