ENG vs SL [WATCH]: Harry Brook left stunned after Prabath Jayasuriya cleans him up with a beauty on Day 2 of 1st Test

The ongoing first Test match between England and Sri Lanka saw a thrilling moment on Day 2 when England’s vice-captain, Harry Brook, was clean bowled by Sri Lankan spinner Prabath Jayasuriya. The dismissal came at a crucial point in the match and was a significant blow to England’s batting lineup.

A crucial wicket for the Islanders

Brook, known for his aggressive and confident batting style, had been looking to build on England’s innings when disaster struck. Jayasuriya, with his impeccable line and length, delivered a masterful ball that bamboozled Brook. The ball spun sharply, beating Brook’s defense and crashing into the stumps. This crucial wicket put Sri Lanka back in control as they capitalized on England’s middle-order collapse.

Harry Brook left stunned

The dismissal left Brook visibly stunned. The English star stood at the crease in disbelief, seemingly unable to comprehend how Jayasuriya’s delivery had breached his defenses. The look of surprise on his face was captured by cameras, highlighting the brilliance of the Sri Lankan spinner.

Here is the video:

Take a bow Prabath Jayasuriya 🤩

What a delivery to remove Harry Brook for 56 👏 #ENGvsSL #TestCricket pic.twitter.com/1VlYJsZ1Kw

— Mr. Ali shaikh (@MrAlishaikh7) August 22, 2024

Also READ: ECB announces summer 2025 schedule: India, South Africa and West Indies to tour England

England edge ahead despite early setbacks

England found themselves in a tricky position after losing their top three batters early in their innings, with minimal contributions from the top order. However, a resilient partnership between Joe Root and Brook brought some stability to the innings. The duo played a series of elegant strokes to help rebuild England’s position after a shaky start.

Joe Root and Brook stabilize the innings

Root, as always, looked in fine touch, guiding England’s innings with his class and experience. Meanwhile, Brook showcased his growing maturity at the crease, playing some exquisite shots to bring up a crucial fifty. Root’s innings, however, was cut short by a fine delivery from Asitha Fernando, leaving England with more work to do.

Brook’s crucial contribution and Jamie Smith’s fightback

Despite the loss of Root, Brook continued to hold the innings together, reaching his half-century and anchoring the middle order. His composure under pressure allowed England to recover and fight back. Jamie Smith then joined Brook at the crease and played an equally important knock. Smith’s fifty proved vital in ensuring that England secured a slender lead by the close of play.

Chris Woakes adds valuable runs

Chris Woakes also played a handy innings, contributing valuable runs down the order. However, his effort came to an end when Prabath Jayasuriya dismissed him towards the end of the day’s play. Jayasuriya’s consistent bowling created challenges for England, and Woakes’ wicket was a significant breakthrough for Sri Lanka.

Bad light ends play

As the day progressed, the weather took a turn for the worse, with drizzle and deteriorating light conditions forcing an early stop to the day’s play. Despite the interruptions, fans were treated to an engaging day of cricket. England hold a slight edge in the game, with a narrow lead heading into Day 3. The key question now is whether they can build on this advantage and extend their lead further. The next day promises to be crucial in determining the outcome of this evenly poised Test match.

Also READ: Meet Harry Singh, son of RP Singh, who fielded for England in the first Test against Sri Lanka