Sri Lanka's top cricketers, including Test captain Dimuth Karunaratne, Dinesh Chandimal and Angelo Mathews, have refused to sign central contracts offered by the country's cricket board citing a lack of transparency in the manner in which categories of the contract have been allocated.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-felt-somewhere-that-my-name-might-pop-up-yuzvendra-chahal-on-indias-squad-for-england-tour-386672" hreflang="en">Cricket- 'Felt somewhere that my name might&nbsp;pop up': Yuzvendra Chahal on India's squad for England tour</a>

According to Sri Lanka Cricket, they offered 24 of its leading players contracts under four categories and that they had been given a deadline until June 3 to sign. As per these categories, six players come in the highest Category A, where they receive an annual pay ranging between $70,000 and $100,000. In this category, Dhananjaya de Silva will receive the highest pay ($100,000), whereas, other players will receive $70,000-80,000 each.

Sri Lankan players issued a joint statement and said that they were “shocked and dismayed” by the SLC’s decision to go public with the specific payment details of players. “These disclosures amount to a grave security concern to each and every player,” they said in the statement.

The chairman of the Cricket Advisory Committee of the SLC, Aravinda de Silva, told reporters that the cricket board was forced to make this tough decision based on the performances of the players. “We wanted to have key performance indicators for the players so that we could evaluate them,” de Silva said, adding that the new pay scheme was incentive-based.

However, the players have refused to take the entire blame for the poor performance in the game in recent years and said that the administrators and local structure were contributing factors to the country’s decline in the international rankings.

According to a Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) report, a statement from the attorney representing nearly all the top Sri Lankan players said the remuneration proposed is one-third of what some other cricket-playing countries offer to their players.&nbsp;

The controversy ahead of the India vs Sri Lanka series puts the tour in jeopardy.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka's top cricketers, including Test captain Dimuth Karunaratne, Dinesh Chandimal and Angelo Mathews, have refused to sign central contracts offered by the country's cricket board citing a lack of transparency in the manner in which categories of the contract have been allocated.

Sri Lanka's top cricketers, including Test captain Dimuth Karunaratne, Dinesh Chandimal and Angelo Mathews, have refused to sign central contracts offered by the country's cricket board citing a lack of transparency in the manner in which categories of the contract have been allocated. ALSO READ: Cricket- 'Felt somewhere that my name might pop up': Yuzvendra Chahal on India's squad for England tour According to Sri Lanka Cricket, they offered 24 of its leading players contracts under four categories and that they had been given a deadline until June 3 to sign. As per these categories, six players come in the highest Category A, where they receive an annual pay ranging between $70,000 and $100,000. In this category, Dhananjaya de Silva will receive the highest pay ($100,000), whereas, other players will receive $70,000-80,000 each. Sri Lankan players issued a joint statement and said that they were “shocked and dismayed” by the SLC’s decision to go public with the specific payment details of players. “These disclosures amount to a grave security concern to each and every player,” they said in the statement. The chairman of the Cricket Advisory Committee of the SLC, Aravinda de Silva, told reporters that the cricket board was forced to make this tough decision based on the performances of the players. “We wanted to have key performance indicators for the players so that we could evaluate them,” de Silva said, adding that the new pay scheme was incentive-based. However, the players have refused to take the entire blame for the poor performance in the game in recent years and said that the administrators and local structure were contributing factors to the country’s decline in the international rankings. According to a Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations (FICA) report, a statement from the attorney representing nearly all the top Sri Lankan players said the remuneration proposed is one-third of what some other cricket-playing countries offer to their players. The controversy ahead of the India vs Sri Lanka series puts the tour in jeopardy.

'Shocked and dismayed': Top Sri Lankan players lock horns with cricket board over contracts

Former Sri Lanka player and coach Nuwan Zoysa has been banned from all cricket for six years after an ICC Anti-Corruption Tribunal found him guilty of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code.

The ban for Zoysa is backdated to&nbsp;October 31, 2018, when he was provisionally suspended.

As previously advised, following full hearings and presentations of written and oral argument, the Tribunal found&nbsp;Zoysa guilty of:

Article 2.1.1 – for being party to an agreement or effort to fix or contrive or otherwise influence improperly the result, progress, conduct or other aspect(s) of an International Match.

Article 2.1.4 – Directly or indirectly soliciting, inducing, enticing, instructing, persuading, encouraging or intentionally facilitating any Participant to breach Code Article 2.1.&nbsp;

Article 2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in corrupt conduct under the Code.

Zoysa has also been charged by the ICC on behalf of the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) with breaching three counts of the ECB Anti-Corruption Code for Participants for the T10 League and these proceedings are ongoing.

Alex Marshall, ICC General Manager – Integrity Unit, said: “Nuwan played 125 matches for Sri Lanka, attending a number of anti-corruption sessions during a decade-long international career. In his role as a national coach, he should have acted as a role model. Instead, he became involved with a corrupter and attempted to corrupt others.

“Contriving to fix a game betrays the basis of sporting principles. It will not be tolerated in our sport.”

Former Sri Lanka player and coach Nuwan Zoysa has been banned from all cricket for six years after an ICC Anti-Corruption Tribunal found him guilty of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code.

Former Sri Lanka player and coach Nuwan Zoysa has been banned from all cricket for six years after an ICC Anti-Corruption Tribunal found him guilty of breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. The ban for Zoysa is backdated to October 31, 2018, when he was provisionally suspended. As previously advised, following full hearings and presentations of written and oral argument, the Tribunal found Zoysa guilty of: Article 2.1.1 – for being party to an agreement or effort to fix or contrive or otherwise influence improperly the result, progress, conduct or other aspect(s) of an International Match. Article 2.1.4 – Directly or indirectly soliciting, inducing, enticing, instructing, persuading, encouraging or intentionally facilitating any Participant to breach Code Article 2.1. Article 2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the ACU full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in corrupt conduct under the Code. Zoysa has also been charged by the ICC on behalf of the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) with breaching three counts of the ECB Anti-Corruption Code for Participants for the T10 League and these proceedings are ongoing. Alex Marshall, ICC General Manager – Integrity Unit, said: “Nuwan played 125 matches for Sri Lanka, attending a number of anti-corruption sessions during a decade-long international career. In his role as a national coach, he should have acted as a role model. Instead, he became involved with a corrupter and attempted to corrupt others. “Contriving to fix a game betrays the basis of sporting principles. It will not be tolerated in our sport.”

Sri Lanka's Nuwan Zoysa banned for six years under ICC Anti-Corruption Code

A new coronavirus wave hitting Sri Lanka has halted a cricket match between two of the country's top schools that has been played for 141 years, continuing even through world wars.

The annual Royal v St Thomas's encounter, originally scheduled for next month, has been indefinitely put off after four players tested positive for Covid-19, a school organiser said.

The latest edition of Sri Lanka's longest-running sporting event was to have been played over three days without spectators.

"What would have been the 142nd Royal-Thomian big-match is not likely to be held this year because of the latest Covid wave," the official told AFP.

Even the first and second world wars failed to halt the annual game, that is often compared to the English public school encounter between Eton and Harrow, played since 1805.

Duleep Mendis, who led Sri Lanka to their first Test win and another former captain, Ranjan Madugalle, are among top players to have taken part.

Sri Lanka has been hit by a virus surge since Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations on April 14.

The number of daily infections has since risen five-fold to nearly 1,000 and the government has closed all schools and banned public functions.

Sri Lanka has reported more than 100,000 cases and 647 deaths.

A new coronavirus wave hitting Sri Lanka has halted a cricket match between two of the country's top schools that has been played for 141 years, continuing even through world wars.

A new coronavirus wave hitting Sri Lanka has halted a cricket match between two of the country's top schools that has been played for 141 years, continuing even through world wars. The annual Royal v St Thomas's encounter, originally scheduled for next month, has been indefinitely put off after four players tested positive for Covid-19, a school organiser said. The latest edition of Sri Lanka's longest-running sporting event was to have been played over three days without spectators. "What would have been the 142nd Royal-Thomian big-match is not likely to be held this year because of the latest Covid wave," the official told AFP. Even the first and second world wars failed to halt the annual game, that is often compared to the English public school encounter between Eton and Harrow, played since 1805. Duleep Mendis, who led Sri Lanka to their first Test win and another former captain, Ranjan Madugalle, are among top players to have taken part. Sri Lanka has been hit by a virus surge since Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations on April 14. The number of daily infections has since risen five-fold to nearly 1,000 and the government has closed all schools and banned public functions. Sri Lanka has reported more than 100,000 cases and 647 deaths.

Sri Lanka cricket match that survived world wars halted by virus

Sri Lanka batsman Kusal Mendis was arrested Sunday after being allegedly involved in a fatal crash with a cyclist, who died instantly, just outside the country's capital Colombo, police said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2011-match-fixing-investigation-dropped-by-sri-lankan-police-due-to-lack-of-evidence-310410" hreflang="en">WC 2011 match-fixing investigation dropped by police due to lack of evidence</a>

The 25-year-old batsman was driving an SUV at Panadura before dawn when the incident happened, police said.

Mendis has been named in the 16-player squad for a two-match home Test series against England in March, but the tour was cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

More than 3,000 people are killed annually in traffic accidents in Sri Lanka.

A former spin bowler, Kaushal Lokuarachchi, was given a four-year suspended jail sentence for crashing into a woman pedestrian and killing her in 2003.

Sri Lanka batsman Kusal Mendis was arrested Sunday after being allegedly involved in a fatal crash with a cyclist, who died instantly, just outside the country's capital Colombo, police said.

Sri Lanka batsman Kusal Mendis was arrested Sunday after being allegedly involved in a fatal crash with a cyclist, who died instantly, just outside the country's capital Colombo, police said. Also read: WC 2011 match-fixing investigation dropped by police due to lack of evidence The 25-year-old batsman was driving an SUV at Panadura before dawn when the incident happened, police said. Mendis has been named in the 16-player squad for a two-match home Test series against England in March, but the tour was cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic. More than 3,000 people are killed annually in traffic accidents in Sri Lanka. A former spin bowler, Kaushal Lokuarachchi, was given a four-year suspended jail sentence for crashing into a woman pedestrian and killing her in 2003.

Sri Lanka batsman Kusal Mendis arrested over fatal crash

The Sri Lankan police have dropped the investigation that claimed the final of 2011 World Cup was fixed. According to officials, they decided to drop the case due to lack of evidence.&nbsp;

"We questioned three -- two players and the chief selector --about team selection and changes. We are satisfied with their explanation," a top police official told AFP. "The inquiry is now closed."

Last player to be interrogated was Mahela Jayawardene.&nbsp;

Then-sports minister of Sri Lanka Mahindananda Aluthgamage claimed that Sri Lanka “sold” the 2011 World Cup final.

"I feel I can talk about it now," Mahindananda Aluthgamage told a local TV network last month. "I am not connecting players, but some sections were involved."

Sri Lanka posted 274/6 off 50 overs before India chased down the target courtesy Gautam Gambhir’s 97 and MS Dhoni’s unbeaten 91. Sri Lanka was criticized for their poor bowling and fielding as India won the match by six wickets.

The toss in the summit class was also controversial as it took place twice after match referee Jeff Crowe apparently didn’t hear the call by Sangakkara and asked Dhoni to flip the coin again. Sri Lanka’s decision to bat first was also slammed by many.&nbsp;

Skipper Kumar Sangakkara, Upul Tharanga and many other players were grilled by the Special Investigation Unit (SIU).&nbsp;

After the interrogation, Sangakkara went on to say: "I hope at the end of this investigation, the truth about the allegations made by (former sports minister) Mahindananda Aluthgamage will come out."

Protests were staged by the members of the Samagi Tharuna Balawegay while the interrogation was on. Demonstrations were held against the harassment of Sri Lankan cricket team.

The Sri Lankan police have dropped the investigation that claimed the final of 2011 World Cup was fixed. According to officials, they decided to drop the case due to lack of evidence.

The Sri Lankan police have dropped the investigation that claimed the final of 2011 World Cup was fixed. According to officials, they decided to drop the case due to lack of evidence. "We questioned three -- two players and the chief selector --about team selection and changes. We are satisfied with their explanation," a top police official told AFP. "The inquiry is now closed." Last player to be interrogated was Mahela Jayawardene. Then-sports minister of Sri Lanka Mahindananda Aluthgamage claimed that Sri Lanka “sold” the 2011 World Cup final. "I feel I can talk about it now," Mahindananda Aluthgamage told a local TV network last month. "I am not connecting players, but some sections were involved." Sri Lanka posted 274/6 off 50 overs before India chased down the target courtesy Gautam Gambhir’s 97 and MS Dhoni’s unbeaten 91. Sri Lanka was criticized for their poor bowling and fielding as India won the match by six wickets. The toss in the summit class was also controversial as it took place twice after match referee Jeff Crowe apparently didn’t hear the call by Sangakkara and asked Dhoni to flip the coin again. Sri Lanka’s decision to bat first was also slammed by many. Skipper Kumar Sangakkara, Upul Tharanga and many other players were grilled by the Special Investigation Unit (SIU). After the interrogation, Sangakkara went on to say: "I hope at the end of this investigation, the truth about the allegations made by (former sports minister) Mahindananda Aluthgamage will come out." Protests were staged by the members of the Samagi Tharuna Balawegay while the interrogation was on. Demonstrations were held against the harassment of Sri Lankan cricket team.

World Cup 2011 match-fixing investigation dropped by Sri Lankan police due to lack of evidence

Cricket's world body is investigating three former Sri Lankan players over alleged corruption, officials said Wednesday, in the latest scandal to hit the sport in the country.

Sri Lanka Cricket did not name the targets of the probe by the International Cricket Council Anti-Corruption Unit, but insisted no current national players were involved.

The board was responding to media reports on comments made by Sports Minister Dullas Alahapperuma on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The reports said Alahapperuma had hinted current players were being investigated by the ICC for match-fixing. &nbsp;

"What the honourable minister actually mentioned was about an investigation launched by the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit against three former Sri Lanka players and not the current national players," the board said in a statement.

The ICC said it would not comment on any active investigation.

Sri Lanka introduced tough penalties for match-fixing and tightened sports betting restrictions in November in a bid to stamp out graft that has tainted the country's cricket team.

Allegations of corruption included claims of match-fixing ahead of a 2018 Test against England.

Betting on sports events in Sri Lanka was already illegal, but the new rules ban Sri Lankans from gambling on overseas contests. They face up to 10 years in jail and fines of up to $555,000 for match-fixing.

The new law also bans people with family links to gambling businesses from sitting on cricket's governing body.

The provision was in part to target the former Sri Lanka Cricket president, Thilanga Sumathipala, who was an executive committee member even though his family owns a gambling business.

Sumathipala, a businessman and politician, has repeatedly denied involvement in the gambling side of the family business.&nbsp;

A former sports minister, Harin Fernando, had said cricket in Sri Lanka was riddled with graft "from top to bottom", and that the ICC considered Sri Lanka one of the world's most corrupt nations.

Former Sri Lankan fast bowler Dilhara Lokuhettige was suspended in 2018 for corruption linked to a limited-over league.

He was the third Sri Lankan charged under the ICC anti-corruption code, following action against former captain and ex-chief selector Sanath Jayasuriya, and former paceman Nuwan Zoysa.

Jayasuriya was found guilty of failing to cooperate with a match-fixing probe and was banned for two years. Zoysa was suspended for match-fixing.

Cricket's world body is investigating three former Sri Lankan players over alleged corruption, officials said Wednesday, in the latest scandal to hit the sport in the country.

Cricket's world body is investigating three former Sri Lankan players over alleged corruption, officials said Wednesday, in the latest scandal to hit the sport in the country. Sri Lanka Cricket did not name the targets of the probe by the International Cricket Council Anti-Corruption Unit, but insisted no current national players were involved. The board was responding to media reports on comments made by Sports Minister Dullas Alahapperuma on Tuesday. The reports said Alahapperuma had hinted current players were being investigated by the ICC for match-fixing. "What the honourable minister actually mentioned was about an investigation launched by the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit against three former Sri Lanka players and not the current national players," the board said in a statement. The ICC said it would not comment on any active investigation. Sri Lanka introduced tough penalties for match-fixing and tightened sports betting restrictions in November in a bid to stamp out graft that has tainted the country's cricket team. Allegations of corruption included claims of match-fixing ahead of a 2018 Test against England. Betting on sports events in Sri Lanka was already illegal, but the new rules ban Sri Lankans from gambling on overseas contests. They face up to 10 years in jail and fines of up to $555,000 for match-fixing. The new law also bans people with family links to gambling businesses from sitting on cricket's governing body. The provision was in part to target the former Sri Lanka Cricket president, Thilanga Sumathipala, who was an executive committee member even though his family owns a gambling business. Sumathipala, a businessman and politician, has repeatedly denied involvement in the gambling side of the family business. A former sports minister, Harin Fernando, had said cricket in Sri Lanka was riddled with graft "from top to bottom", and that the ICC considered Sri Lanka one of the world's most corrupt nations. Former Sri Lankan fast bowler Dilhara Lokuhettige was suspended in 2018 for corruption linked to a limited-over league. He was the third Sri Lankan charged under the ICC anti-corruption code, following action against former captain and ex-chief selector Sanath Jayasuriya, and former paceman Nuwan Zoysa. Jayasuriya was found guilty of failing to cooperate with a match-fixing probe and was banned for two years. Zoysa was suspended for match-fixing.

Sri Lanka Cricket says 3 former players in ICC graft probe

Sri Lanka's cricket board Tuesday suspended pace bowler Shehan Madushanka from all forms of the game, two days after he was arrested allegedly in possession of heroin.

The right-arm bowler was stopped while driving with another person in a car on Sunday and found to have two grams of the drug, police said.

He took a hat-trick against Bangladesh on his one-day international debut in January 2018. He also played two T20 matches against Bangladesh in 2018, but has not played an international since due to injuries.

Sri Lanka Cricket secretary Mohan de Silva said they suspended the 25-year-old pending an internal disciplinary inquiry. He was remanded into custody on Monday.

"We have suspended him with immediate effect and he also cannot take part in any form of the game," de Silva said.

Sri Lanka's cricket board Tuesday suspended pace bowler Shehan Madushanka from all forms of the game, two days after he was arrested allegedly in possession of heroin.

Sri Lanka's cricket board Tuesday suspended pace bowler Shehan Madushanka from all forms of the game, two days after he was arrested allegedly in possession of heroin. The right-arm bowler was stopped while driving with another person in a car on Sunday and found to have two grams of the drug, police said. He took a hat-trick against Bangladesh on his one-day international debut in January 2018. He also played two T20 matches against Bangladesh in 2018, but has not played an international since due to injuries. Sri Lanka Cricket secretary Mohan de Silva said they suspended the 25-year-old pending an internal disciplinary inquiry. He was remanded into custody on Monday. "We have suspended him with immediate effect and he also cannot take part in any form of the game," de Silva said.

Sri Lanka suspends Shehan Madushanka after heroin arrest

A senior official of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has dismissed the reports suggesting that Sri Lanka has proposed to host the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which has been&nbsp;proposed ‘till further notice’ following Indian government’s move to extend the countrywide lockdown to the curb the spread of COVID-19.

The board official has said that the BCCI will not be in any position to say anything regarding IPL 2020 till lockdown doesn’t end. The official further confirmed that the BCCI has not received any proposal from the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) and hence, no discussion has taken place on that matter.

“The BCCI will not be in a position to say anything when the world is closed,” a senior Board official told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-coach-simon-katich-open-to-ipl-2020-outside-india-says-its-one-of-many-scenarios-thats-being-discussed-293101" hreflang="en">RCB coach Simon Katich open to IPL 2020 outside India, says 'it’s one of many scenarios that’s being discussed'</a>

“There is no proposal from SLC yet and obviously no discussion,” the official on being asked about the BCCI’s stand when the offer is on table.

Earlier on Thursday, a report in Sri Lankan newspaper – Lankadeepa- suggested that Sri Lanka cricket president Shammi Silva had already written to the BCCI in what was a proposal to shift the 13th edition of IPL to Sri Lanka and that the country is ready to provide all facilities in consultation with the government and medical experts.

“Apparently it will cost the BCCI and its stakeholders more than $500 million to cancel the IPL. So perhaps they can minimise those losses by hosting the tournament in another country,” Silva was quoted as saying to Sinhala daily Lankadeepa.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-record-in-t20s-has-been-good-dinesh-karthik-confident-of-playing-in-icc-t20-world-cup-293110" hreflang="en">'My record in T20s has been good' - Dinesh Karthik confident of playing in ICC T20 World Cup</a>

“If they play it in Sri Lanka, it’s easy for Indian audiences to watch the games on TV. There’s precedent for this because they’ve played the IPL in South Africa before. We’re waiting for the Indian board to respond to our proposal,” he added.

Speculations are rife that the BCCI could look to the October-November window for the IPL if the ICC T20 World Cup is postponed.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A senior official of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has dismissed the reports suggesting that Sri Lanka has proposed to host the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which has been proposed ‘till further notice’ following Indian government’s move to extend the countrywide lockdown to the curb the spread of COVID-19.

A senior official of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has dismissed the reports suggesting that Sri Lanka has proposed to host the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which has been proposed ‘till further notice’ following Indian government’s move to extend the countrywide lockdown to the curb the spread of COVID-19. The board official has said that the BCCI will not be in any position to say anything regarding IPL 2020 till lockdown doesn’t end. The official further confirmed that the BCCI has not received any proposal from the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) and hence, no discussion has taken place on that matter. “The BCCI will not be in a position to say anything when the world is closed,” a senior Board official told PTI on conditions of anonymity. ALSO READ: RCB coach Simon Katich open to IPL 2020 outside India, says 'it’s one of many scenarios that’s being discussed' “There is no proposal from SLC yet and obviously no discussion,” the official on being asked about the BCCI’s stand when the offer is on table. Earlier on Thursday, a report in Sri Lankan newspaper – Lankadeepa- suggested that Sri Lanka cricket president Shammi Silva had already written to the BCCI in what was a proposal to shift the 13th edition of IPL to Sri Lanka and that the country is ready to provide all facilities in consultation with the government and medical experts. “Apparently it will cost the BCCI and its stakeholders more than $500 million to cancel the IPL. So perhaps they can minimise those losses by hosting the tournament in another country,” Silva was quoted as saying to Sinhala daily Lankadeepa. ALSO READ: 'My record in T20s has been good' - Dinesh Karthik confident of playing in ICC T20 World Cup “If they play it in Sri Lanka, it’s easy for Indian audiences to watch the games on TV. There’s precedent for this because they’ve played the IPL in South Africa before. We’re waiting for the Indian board to respond to our proposal,” he added. Speculations are rife that the BCCI could look to the October-November window for the IPL if the ICC T20 World Cup is postponed.

No proposal from Sri Lanka Cricket to host IPL 2020: BCCI official

The first T20I between India and Sri Lanka at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati was abandoned without a ball being bowled due to rain on Sunday.

India had won the toss and opted to bowl first in their first T20I against Sri Lanka but rain played spoilsport.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) took to Twitter and wrote: "Not the news that we would want to hear, but the 1st T20I between India and Sri Lanka has been abandoned due to rain. See you in Indore #INDvSL."

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Not the news that we would want to hear, but the 1st T20I between India and Sri Lanka has been abandoned due to rain. 
 
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/anushka-virat-ring-in-the-new-year-with-saif-kareena-and-varun-271448">Virat Kohli</a>-led team is scheduled to host Sri Lanka for a three-match T20I series. The second and third T20I will be played on January 7 and 10 respectively.

The first T20I between India and Sri Lanka at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati was abandoned without a ball being bowled due to rain on Sunday. India had won the toss and opted to bowl first in their first T20I against Sri Lanka but rain played spoilsport.

The first T20I between India and Sri Lanka at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati was abandoned without a ball being bowled due to rain on Sunday. India had won the toss and opted to bowl first in their first T20I against Sri Lanka but rain played spoilsport. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) took to Twitter and wrote: "Not the news that we would want to hear, but the 1st T20I between India and Sri Lanka has been abandoned due to rain. See you in Indore #INDvSL." Not the news that we would want to hear, but the 1st T20I between India and Sri Lanka has been abandoned due to rain. See you in Indore #INDvSL pic.twitter.com/72ORWCt2zm — BCCI (@BCCI) January 5, 2020 × Virat Kohli-led team is scheduled to host Sri Lanka for a three-match T20I series. The second and third T20I will be played on January 7 and 10 respectively.

India's T20 against Sri Lanka called off due to rain

Sri Lankan fast bowler Suranga Lakmal will miss a two-match Test series in Pakistan after contracting dengue fever, Sri Lanka's cricket board announced Sunday.

He will be replaced by Asitha Fernando, who will join the squad for the second match of the series, the first to be played in Pakistan for more than a decade following a militant attack on a touring Sri Lankan team in March 2009.

Sri Lanka have also given former skipper Dinesh Chandimal a chance to fight his way back into the national team, now led by Dimuth Karunaratne.&nbsp;

The 30-year-old Chandimal played his last Test in Australia in February.

He was included in the squad that played New Zealand in August but did not play a match.

In October, half of the 16 Sri Lankan players originally named to play in a limited-overs series in Pakistan refused to travel, citing security fears.&nbsp;

The Test squad left Sri Lanka Cricket headquarters in Colombo Sunday after receiving blessings from Buddhist monks.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka lost October's three-match one-day international series in Pakistan, but won the three T20 matches.

New skipper Karunaratne was one of the eight players who stayed away from that tour.

The first Test will be played in Rawalpindi from December 11.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka squad:

Dimuth Karunaratne (capt), Oshada Fernando, Kusal Mendis, Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Kusal Perera, Lahiru Thirimanne, Dhananjaya de Silva, Niroshan Dickwella, Dilruwan Perera, Lasith Embuldeniya, &nbsp;Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando, Kasun Rajitha, and Lakshan Sandakan. Substitute player from the end Test: Asitha Fernando.

Sri Lankan fast bowler Suranga Lakmal will miss a two-match Test series in Pakistan after contracting dengue fever, Sri Lanka's cricket board announced Sunday. He will be replaced by Asitha Fernando, who will join the squad for the second match of the series, the first to be played in Pakistan for more than a decade following a militant attack on a touring Sri Lankan team in March 2009.

Sri Lankan fast bowler Suranga Lakmal will miss a two-match Test series in Pakistan after contracting dengue fever, Sri Lanka's cricket board announced Sunday. He will be replaced by Asitha Fernando, who will join the squad for the second match of the series, the first to be played in Pakistan for more than a decade following a militant attack on a touring Sri Lankan team in March 2009. Sri Lanka have also given former skipper Dinesh Chandimal a chance to fight his way back into the national team, now led by Dimuth Karunaratne. The 30-year-old Chandimal played his last Test in Australia in February. He was included in the squad that played New Zealand in August but did not play a match. In October, half of the 16 Sri Lankan players originally named to play in a limited-overs series in Pakistan refused to travel, citing security fears. The Test squad left Sri Lanka Cricket headquarters in Colombo Sunday after receiving blessings from Buddhist monks. Sri Lanka lost October's three-match one-day international series in Pakistan, but won the three T20 matches. New skipper Karunaratne was one of the eight players who stayed away from that tour. The first Test will be played in Rawalpindi from December 11. Sri Lanka squad: Dimuth Karunaratne (capt), Oshada Fernando, Kusal Mendis, Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Kusal Perera, Lahiru Thirimanne, Dhananjaya de Silva, Niroshan Dickwella, Dilruwan Perera, Lasith Embuldeniya, Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando, Kasun Rajitha, and Lakshan Sandakan. Substitute player from the end Test: Asitha Fernando.

Suranga Lakmal to miss Sri Lanka's tour of Pakistan due to dengue

A fighting half-century by wicketkeeper-batsman BJ&nbsp;Watling helped New Zealand to take a lead of 177 at stumps on day three in the first Test match against Sri Lanka in Galle on Friday.

New Zealand, who trailed Sri Lanka by 18 runs in the first innings, finished on 195 for seven and a target around 200 could prove tricky for the hosts.

Spinners have long ruled the roost at Galle and towards the tail end of the game they tend to become even more threatening.

The highest successful run chase in here is 99 by Sri Lanka against Pakistan in 2014 and armed with a three-pronged spin attack, New Zealand should be already feeling comfortable.

It was a thrilling day's Test match with both teams fighting tooth and nail for the initiative and at stumps on day three New Zealand emerged on top thanks to the efforts of Watling, who finished unbeaten on 63.

New Zealand had slumped to 25 for three losing top batsmen Ross Taylor (3) and Kane Williamson (4) cheaply and at 124 for six with only a lead of 106 runs and four wickets remaining, they were playing catch up.

But Watling found an ideal partner in Tim Southee as the pair shared a 54-run stand to turn the game in New Zealand's favour.

Sri Lanka were sloppy on the field with Southee dropped three times. Lasith Embuldeniya provided the much-needed breakthrough when Southee gave him the charge and&nbsp;was stumped by Niroshan Dickwella. He made 23. It was Embuldeniya's fourth wicket in the innings.

Watling had been given out leg before to Embuldeniya when he was on one. But the batsman successfully reviewed the decision. Watling who has six Test hundreds and posted a career-best unbeaten 142 against Sri Lanka was again being a thorn in their flesh with an unbeaten 63 that came off 138 balls with five fours.

Earlier, after resuming on 227 for seven, Niroshan Dickwella top scored for Sri Lanka with 61 as they went onto post 267. Dickwella and Suranga Lakmal were involved in a crucial 81 run stand for the eighth wicket that enabled them to take a lead. Lakmal made 40.

Ajaz Patel became the first New Zealander to take five wickets in Galle and he was well backed up by William Somerville and Trent Boult, who shared five wickets between the two of them.

A fighting half-century by wicketkeeper-batsman BJ Watling helped New Zealand to take a lead of 177 at stumps on day three in the first Test match against Sri Lanka in Galle on Friday.

A fighting half-century by wicketkeeper-batsman BJ Watling helped New Zealand to take a lead of 177 at stumps on day three in the first Test match against Sri Lanka in Galle on Friday. New Zealand, who trailed Sri Lanka by 18 runs in the first innings, finished on 195 for seven and a target around 200 could prove tricky for the hosts. Spinners have long ruled the roost at Galle and towards the tail end of the game they tend to become even more threatening. The highest successful run chase in here is 99 by Sri Lanka against Pakistan in 2014 and armed with a three-pronged spin attack, New Zealand should be already feeling comfortable. It was a thrilling day's Test match with both teams fighting tooth and nail for the initiative and at stumps on day three New Zealand emerged on top thanks to the efforts of Watling, who finished unbeaten on 63. New Zealand had slumped to 25 for three losing top batsmen Ross Taylor (3) and Kane Williamson (4) cheaply and at 124 for six with only a lead of 106 runs and four wickets remaining, they were playing catch up. But Watling found an ideal partner in Tim Southee as the pair shared a 54-run stand to turn the game in New Zealand's favour. Sri Lanka were sloppy on the field with Southee dropped three times. Lasith Embuldeniya provided the much-needed breakthrough when Southee gave him the charge and was stumped by Niroshan Dickwella. He made 23. It was Embuldeniya's fourth wicket in the innings. Watling had been given out leg before to Embuldeniya when he was on one. But the batsman successfully reviewed the decision. Watling who has six Test hundreds and posted a career-best unbeaten 142 against Sri Lanka was again being a thorn in their flesh with an unbeaten 63 that came off 138 balls with five fours. Earlier, after resuming on 227 for seven, Niroshan Dickwella top scored for Sri Lanka with 61 as they went onto post 267. Dickwella and Suranga Lakmal were involved in a crucial 81 run stand for the eighth wicket that enabled them to take a lead. Lakmal made 40. Ajaz Patel became the first New Zealander to take five wickets in Galle and he was well backed up by William Somerville and Trent Boult, who shared five wickets between the two of them.

Galle Test: BJ Watling puts New Zealand in strong position

'Malinga the Slinga' bids adieu to ODIs but his unique bowling remains mystery for many batsmen

Veteran Sri Lankan star Lasith Malinga said Thursday he was "very happy" to make way for younger players as he calls time on his illustrious 15-year career in the 50-over format.

Malinga will play his final one-day international in Colombo Friday in the first of three ODIs against Bangladesh but hopes to continue playing in the shorter T20 format.

"I am very happy to leave at this time. This is an opportunity for new players to prove themselves and prepare for the next World Cup," Malinga, 35, told reporters Thursday at the team's final training session.

"We may have had some setbacks, but we have the capability to win another World Cup," he added, pointing to <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lanka-approves-visa-on-arrival-scheme-for-india-from-august-1-238312&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwit9dO878_jAhULHo8KHWkoDFUQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3SU9HIyxcB8NKTaHNUm8NL">Sri Lanka</a>'s success at the 1996 World Cup and 2014 T20 World Cup.

Malinga - known for his trademark blond-highlighted mop and piercings - called on cricket administrators to be patient with up-and-coming stars and let them develop ahead of the next ODI World Cup.

"The young players need to believe that they can deliver. They need to be dedicated and develop to a level that they can decide for themselves when they go to the middle," Malinga said.

Two days ago, Malinga posted a video message on his wife's Facebook page saying he felt no ill will towards officials and players who may have tried to push him out of the ODI team.

He said he was sidelined by selectors two years ago but was able to prove his value at the recent World Cup, where he took four for 43 in Sri Lanka's group-stage win over eventual champions England.

Malinga has his sights on next year's T20 World Cup in Australia, and Sri Lanka's cricket board confirmed he would be available for selection for the T20 squad.

Malinga is leaving as Sri Lanka's third-highest wicket-taker in ODI cricket with 335 wickets in 219 innings so far since his first ODI against the United Arab Emirates in 2014.

Only Muttiah Muralitharan (523) and Chaminda Vaas (399) have taken more wickets than Malinga in ODIs for Sri Lanka.

He was Sri Lanka's highest wicket-taker at the World Cup, claiming 13 scalps in seven innings.

Malinga retired from Test cricket in 2011 but continued to remain available in other formats.

Veteran Sri Lankan star Lasith Malinga said Thursday he was "very happy" to make way for younger players as he calls time on his illustrious 15-year career in the 50-over format.

Veteran Sri Lankan star Lasith Malinga said Thursday he was "very happy" to make way for younger players as he calls time on his illustrious 15-year career in the 50-over format. Malinga will play his final one-day international in Colombo Friday in the first of three ODIs against Bangladesh but hopes to continue playing in the shorter T20 format. "I am very happy to leave at this time. This is an opportunity for new players to prove themselves and prepare for the next World Cup," Malinga, 35, told reporters Thursday at the team's final training session. "We may have had some setbacks, but we have the capability to win another World Cup," he added, pointing to Sri Lanka's success at the 1996 World Cup and 2014 T20 World Cup. Malinga - known for his trademark blond-highlighted mop and piercings - called on cricket administrators to be patient with up-and-coming stars and let them develop ahead of the next ODI World Cup. "The young players need to believe that they can deliver. They need to be dedicated and develop to a level that they can decide for themselves when they go to the middle," Malinga said. Two days ago, Malinga posted a video message on his wife's Facebook page saying he felt no ill will towards officials and players who may have tried to push him out of the ODI team. He said he was sidelined by selectors two years ago but was able to prove his value at the recent World Cup, where he took four for 43 in Sri Lanka's group-stage win over eventual champions England. Malinga has his sights on next year's T20 World Cup in Australia, and Sri Lanka's cricket board confirmed he would be available for selection for the T20 squad. Malinga is leaving as Sri Lanka's third-highest wicket-taker in ODI cricket with 335 wickets in 219 innings so far since his first ODI against the United Arab Emirates in 2014. Only Muttiah Muralitharan (523) and Chaminda Vaas (399) have taken more wickets than Malinga in ODIs for Sri Lanka. He was Sri Lanka's highest wicket-taker at the World Cup, claiming 13 scalps in seven innings. Malinga retired from Test cricket in 2011 but continued to remain available in other formats.

We have the capability to win another World Cup: Malinga

For two teams coming off rejuvenating victories, match number 11 of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 could end up a dampener.

The forecast for Bristol on Friday (June 7) is for heavy rain all through the day. At 10:30 am local time, when this match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka is due to begin, the chance of rain is predicted for 80 per cent. It is not a situation either team will fancy, for a washed out game could end up hurting them in the back end of the tournament.

Locals reckon the rain won’t let up, so we could all be in for a frustrating day.

Sri Lanka have never beaten Pakistan in a World Cup match, but Dimuth Karunaratne is confident that his team can become the first to do so. After losing to New Zealand by ten wickets, Sri Lanka overcame a scare against Afghanistan to find some momentum, which Karunaratne said instilled a greater sense of belief in the squad.

Up against the most unpredictable team in the sport, Sri Lanka are ready for a fightback. In this World Cup, Pakistan were bowled out for 105 by West Indies and then made 348 to beat England. What Pakistan team turns up in their third match remains to be seen.

Twenty years separated Pakistan’s only two ODI matches in Bristol. During the 1999 World Cup, they beat West Indies here. Last month, they lost here to England by six wickets despite scoring 358.

Match details

What: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka

Where: County Ground, Bristol

When: 10:30am local time (3:00pm IST)

Weather: Rain is predicted in scattered bursts from 1am until the late afternoon.

Team news

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka trained unbroken during the morning, under mostly grey skies, but the rain did not interrupt their practice session. Each member of the team practised, with Angelo Mathews and Kusal Mendis, in particular, getting more throw-downs. It was not surprising, given their poor scores in the World Cup.

Sri Lanka are not expected to make any changes to their last XI, with Karunaratne putting faith in the batsmen.

Sri Lanka likely XI: 1 Dimuth Karunarate, 2 Kusal Perera (wk), 3 Lahiru Thirimanne, 4 Kusal Mendis, 5 Angelo Mathews, 6 Dhananjaya de Silva, 7 Thisara Perera, 8 Isuru Udana, 9 Suranga Lakmal, 10 Lasith Malinga, 11 Nuwan Pradeep

Pakistan’s practice session was briefly delayed by rain. Sarfaraz Ahmed, the skipper, was the first to turn up on the ground and ran a couple laps on his own. The team appeared in good spirits as it began a game of football and the mood remained upbeat during fielding, batting and bowling practice.

Pakistan likely XI: 1 Imam-ul-Haq, 2 Fakhar Zaman, 3 Babar Azam, 4 Mohammad Hafeez, 5 Sarfaraz Ahme (capt/wk), 6 Asif Ali, 7 Shoaib Malik, 8 Shadab Khan, 9 Hasan Ali, 10 Wahab Riaz, 11 Mohammad Amir

Stats

Head to head in 134 ODIs, West Indies have won 71 matches and Pakistan 60. Three matches have been tied.

Pakistan’s record in ODIs at the Country Ground is one win and one loss.

West Indies have lost all four ODIs played here.

Quotes

“I definitely do sense quite a bit of confidence, especially, like, in the meeting we had this morning. Since we have won, well it took off a lot of the pressure definitely, having gone through those string of defeats. Psychologically, that lifts a huge weight from their shoulders.” – Grant Flower, Pakistan batting coach

“We just need a win. It always give us the confidence if you get a win, any team, with any team, that is what we want. Finally, we got that. After that, we did really good things in that particular match, and also we have some parts to learn more, many things about the batting.” – Dimuth Karunaratne

(This article was originally published on Cricket Country. Read the <a href="https://www.cricketcountry.com/news/cricket-world-cup-2019-bristol-rain-threatens-to-dampen-upbeat-pakistan-and-sri-lanka-fixture-853074">original article</a>)&nbsp;

For two teams coming off rejuvenating victories, match number 11 of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 could end up a dampener. The forecast for Bristol on Friday (June 7) is for heavy rain all through the day.

For two teams coming off rejuvenating victories, match number 11 of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 could end up a dampener. The forecast for Bristol on Friday (June 7) is for heavy rain all through the day. At 10:30 am local time, when this match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka is due to begin, the chance of rain is predicted for 80 per cent. It is not a situation either team will fancy, for a washed out game could end up hurting them in the back end of the tournament. Locals reckon the rain won’t let up, so we could all be in for a frustrating day. Sri Lanka have never beaten Pakistan in a World Cup match, but Dimuth Karunaratne is confident that his team can become the first to do so. After losing to New Zealand by ten wickets, Sri Lanka overcame a scare against Afghanistan to find some momentum, which Karunaratne said instilled a greater sense of belief in the squad. Up against the most unpredictable team in the sport, Sri Lanka are ready for a fightback. In this World Cup, Pakistan were bowled out for 105 by West Indies and then made 348 to beat England. What Pakistan team turns up in their third match remains to be seen. Twenty years separated Pakistan’s only two ODI matches in Bristol. During the 1999 World Cup, they beat West Indies here. Last month, they lost here to England by six wickets despite scoring 358. Match details What: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Where: County Ground, Bristol When: 10:30am local time (3:00pm IST) Weather: Rain is predicted in scattered bursts from 1am until the late afternoon. Team news Sri Lanka Sri Lanka trained unbroken during the morning, under mostly grey skies, but the rain did not interrupt their practice session. Each member of the team practised, with Angelo Mathews and Kusal Mendis, in particular, getting more throw-downs. It was not surprising, given their poor scores in the World Cup. Sri Lanka are not expected to make any changes to their last XI, with Karunaratne putting faith in the batsmen. Sri Lanka likely XI: 1 Dimuth Karunarate, 2 Kusal Perera (wk), 3 Lahiru Thirimanne, 4 Kusal Mendis, 5 Angelo Mathews, 6 Dhananjaya de Silva, 7 Thisara Perera, 8 Isuru Udana, 9 Suranga Lakmal, 10 Lasith Malinga, 11 Nuwan Pradeep Pakistan’s practice session was briefly delayed by rain. Sarfaraz Ahmed, the skipper, was the first to turn up on the ground and ran a couple laps on his own. The team appeared in good spirits as it began a game of football and the mood remained upbeat during fielding, batting and bowling practice. Pakistan likely XI: 1 Imam-ul-Haq, 2 Fakhar Zaman, 3 Babar Azam, 4 Mohammad Hafeez, 5 Sarfaraz Ahme (capt/wk), 6 Asif Ali, 7 Shoaib Malik, 8 Shadab Khan, 9 Hasan Ali, 10 Wahab Riaz, 11 Mohammad Amir Stats Head to head in 134 ODIs, West Indies have won 71 matches and Pakistan 60. Three matches have been tied. Pakistan’s record in ODIs at the Country Ground is one win and one loss. West Indies have lost all four ODIs played here. Quotes “I definitely do sense quite a bit of confidence, especially, like, in the meeting we had this morning. Since we have won, well it took off a lot of the pressure definitely, having gone through those string of defeats. Psychologically, that lifts a huge weight from their shoulders.” – Grant Flower, Pakistan batting coach “We just need a win. It always give us the confidence if you get a win, any team, with any team, that is what we want. Finally, we got that. After that, we did really good things in that particular match, and also we have some parts to learn more, many things about the batting.” – Dimuth Karunaratne (This article was originally published on Cricket Country. Read the original article)

Cricket World Cup 2019: Bristol rain threatens to dampen upbeat Pakistan and Sri Lanka fixture

Nuwan Pradeep and Lasith Malinga starred with the ball as Sri Lanka fought back to crush Afghanistan's hopes of a memorable World Cup victory on Tuesday.

Afghanistan, bidding for just their second win in a World Cup match and their first over a Test nation were in command halfway through a gloomy day in Cardiff after dismissing Sri Lanka for 201,.

But faced with a rain-revised target of 187 in 41 overs, their batting let them down again as they were bowled out for 152.

Victory saw Sri Lanka bounce back from a 10-wicket thrashing by New Zealand in their World Cup opener.

Pradeep took a career-best four for 31, while Malinga (three for 39) struck at both ends of the innings, finishing the match with a trademark yorker that bowled Hamid Hassan.

Afghanistan had slumped to 57 for five, with Thisara Perera holding a brilliant running catch in the deep to dismiss Hazratullah Zazai on the hook for 30.

Afghanistan captain Gulbadin Naib (23) and Najibullah Zadran (43) then started to turn the match again with a sixth-wicket stand of 64.

Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan match in numbers:
<img alt="Match 7" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9a3cdc17-83ab-48ea-8928-f433c5526732" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/match%207.jpg" />
But paceman Pradeep struck twice, having Naib lbw before bowling Rashid Khan to leave Afghanistan 123 for seven.

And when Najibullah was run out by a direct hit from Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne, Afghanistan were all but beaten at nine down.

Earlier, Sri Lanka came out of the blocks quickly against the unfancied Afghans, who suffered a seven-wicket loss to champions Australia in their tournament opener, and were set for an imposing total at 144 for one.

But they lost their last nine wickets for 57 runs, Mohammad Nabi taking three in five balls after Gulbadin won the toss.

Shell-shocked Sri Lanka kept on&nbsp;losing wickets at regular intervals, with 35 extras the second-highest scorer of the innings behind Kusal Perera's 78.

A dramatic 22nd over saw Nabi bowled Lahiru Thirimanne for 25 before having Kusal Mendis caught by Rahmat Shah in the slips for two.&nbsp;

Angelo Mathews was next to go, for a duck, also caught by Shah.

Leg-spinner Rashid Khan eventually got in on the act when he had opener Kusal Perera, who had seen wickets tumble at the other end, caught behind.

Rain then intervened, forcing the players from the field,&nbsp;with Sri Lanka 182-8.

The delay meant the match was reduced to 41 overs a side but Sri Lanka folded quickly after the resumption, losing Malinga and Pradeep for the addition of just 19 more runs.

Afghanistan, playing in only their second World Cup, beat Sri Lanka soundly in last year's Asia Cup in the United Arab Emirates, but for the second match in a row this World Cup their batting let them down.

Completed scoreboard in the World Cup match between Afghanistan and Sri Lanka in Cardiff on Tuesday:

Sri Lanka

D&nbsp;Karunaratne c Najibullah b Nabi &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;30

K&nbsp;Perera c Shahzad b Rashid &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;78

L&nbsp;Thirimanne b Nabi &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;25

K Mendis c Rahmat b Nabi &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2

A&nbsp;Mathews c Rahmat b Nabi &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0

D&nbsp;de Silva c Shahzad b Hamid &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 0

T&nbsp;Perera run out (Hashmatullah/Shahzad) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 2

I&nbsp;Udana b Dawlat &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;10

S&nbsp;Lakmal not out &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;15

L&nbsp;Malinga b Dawlat &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4

N&nbsp;Pradeep b Rashid &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0

Extras (lb10, nb3, w22) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;35

Total (all out, 36.5 overs) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;201

Fall of wickets: 1-92 (Karunaratne), 2-144 (Thirimanne), 3-146 (Mendis), 4-146 (Mathews), 5-149 (De Silva), 6-159 (Perera), 7-178 (Udana), 8-180 (Perera), 9-199 (Malinga), 10-201 (Pradeep)

Bowling: Dawlat 6-0-34-2 (3w); Hamid 7-0-53-1 (2w); Mujeeb 3-0-19-0 (1w); Nabi 9-0-30-4 (1w); Gulbadin 4-0-38-0 (3nb, 2w); Rashid 7.5-1-17-2 (1w)

Afghanistan (revised target 187 in 41 overs)

Mohammad Shahzad c Karunratne b Malinga &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;7

Hazratullah Zazai c Perera b Pradeep &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;30

Rahmat Shah c Mathews b Udana &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2

Hashmatullah Shahidi c Perera b Pradeep &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;4

Mohammad Nabi b Perera &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;11

Gulbadin Naib lbw b Pradeep &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;23

Najibullah Zadran run out (Karunaratne) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;43

Rashid Khan b Pradeep &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2

Dawlat Zadran b Malinga &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6

Hamid Hassan b Malinga &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;6

Mujeeb Ur Rahman not out &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1

Extras (b1, nb1, w15) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;17

Total (all out, 32.4 overs) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;152

Fall of wickets: 1-34 (Shahzad), 2-42 (Rahmat), 3-44 (Hazratullah), 4-57 (Hashmatullah), 5-57 (Nabi), 6-121 (Gulbadin), 7-123 (Rashid), 8-136 (Dawlat), 9-145 (Najibullah), 10-152 (Hamid)

Bowling: Malinga 6.4-0-39-3 (3w); Lakmal 6-0-27-0 (2w); Udana 6-0-28-1 (1nb); Pradeep 9-1-31-4 (4w); Perera 4-0-19-1 (2w), De Silva 1-0-7-0

Nuwan Pradeep and Lasith Malinga starred with the ball as Sri Lanka fought back to crush Afghanistan's hopes of a memorable World Cup victory on Tuesday. Afghanistan, bidding for just their second win in a World Cup match and their first over a Test nation were in command halfway through a gloomy day in Cardiff after dismissing Sri Lanka for 201,.

Nuwan Pradeep and Lasith Malinga starred with the ball as Sri Lanka fought back to crush Afghanistan's hopes of a memorable World Cup victory on Tuesday. Afghanistan, bidding for just their second win in a World Cup match and their first over a Test nation were in command halfway through a gloomy day in Cardiff after dismissing Sri Lanka for 201,. But faced with a rain-revised target of 187 in 41 overs, their batting let them down again as they were bowled out for 152. Victory saw Sri Lanka bounce back from a 10-wicket thrashing by New Zealand in their World Cup opener. Pradeep took a career-best four for 31, while Malinga (three for 39) struck at both ends of the innings, finishing the match with a trademark yorker that bowled Hamid Hassan. Afghanistan had slumped to 57 for five, with Thisara Perera holding a brilliant running catch in the deep to dismiss Hazratullah Zazai on the hook for 30. Afghanistan captain Gulbadin Naib (23) and Najibullah Zadran (43) then started to turn the match again with a sixth-wicket stand of 64. Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan match in numbers: But paceman Pradeep struck twice, having Naib lbw before bowling Rashid Khan to leave Afghanistan 123 for seven. And when Najibullah was run out by a direct hit from Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne, Afghanistan were all but beaten at nine down. Earlier, Sri Lanka came out of the blocks quickly against the unfancied Afghans, who suffered a seven-wicket loss to champions Australia in their tournament opener, and were set for an imposing total at 144 for one. But they lost their last nine wickets for 57 runs, Mohammad Nabi taking three in five balls after Gulbadin won the toss. Shell-shocked Sri Lanka kept on losing wickets at regular intervals, with 35 extras the second-highest scorer of the innings behind Kusal Perera's 78. A dramatic 22nd over saw Nabi bowled Lahiru Thirimanne for 25 before having Kusal Mendis caught by Rahmat Shah in the slips for two. Angelo Mathews was next to go, for a duck, also caught by Shah. Leg-spinner Rashid Khan eventually got in on the act when he had opener Kusal Perera, who had seen wickets tumble at the other end, caught behind. Rain then intervened, forcing the players from the field, with Sri Lanka 182-8. The delay meant the match was reduced to 41 overs a side but Sri Lanka folded quickly after the resumption, losing Malinga and Pradeep for the addition of just 19 more runs. Afghanistan, playing in only their second World Cup, beat Sri Lanka soundly in last year's Asia Cup in the United Arab Emirates, but for the second match in a row this World Cup their batting let them down. Completed scoreboard in the World Cup match between Afghanistan and Sri Lanka in Cardiff on Tuesday: Sri Lanka D Karunaratne c Najibullah b Nabi 30 K Perera c Shahzad b Rashid 78 L Thirimanne b Nabi 25 K Mendis c Rahmat b Nabi 2 A Mathews c Rahmat b Nabi 0 D de Silva c Shahzad b Hamid 0 T Perera run out (Hashmatullah/Shahzad) 2 I Udana b Dawlat 10 S Lakmal not out 15 L Malinga b Dawlat 4 N Pradeep b Rashid 0 Extras (lb10, nb3, w22) 35 Total (all out, 36.5 overs) 201 Fall of wickets: 1-92 (Karunaratne), 2-144 (Thirimanne), 3-146 (Mendis), 4-146 (Mathews), 5-149 (De Silva), 6-159 (Perera), 7-178 (Udana), 8-180 (Perera), 9-199 (Malinga), 10-201 (Pradeep) Bowling: Dawlat 6-0-34-2 (3w); Hamid 7-0-53-1 (2w); Mujeeb 3-0-19-0 (1w); Nabi 9-0-30-4 (1w); Gulbadin 4-0-38-0 (3nb, 2w); Rashid 7.5-1-17-2 (1w) Afghanistan (revised target 187 in 41 overs) Mohammad Shahzad c Karunratne b Malinga 7 Hazratullah Zazai c Perera b Pradeep 30 Rahmat Shah c Mathews b Udana 2 Hashmatullah Shahidi c Perera b Pradeep 4 Mohammad Nabi b Perera 11 Gulbadin Naib lbw b Pradeep 23 Najibullah Zadran run out (Karunaratne) 43 Rashid Khan b Pradeep 2 Dawlat Zadran b Malinga 6 Hamid Hassan b Malinga 6 Mujeeb Ur Rahman not out 1 Extras (b1, nb1, w15) 17 Total (all out, 32.4 overs) 152 Fall of wickets: 1-34 (Shahzad), 2-42 (Rahmat), 3-44 (Hazratullah), 4-57 (Hashmatullah), 5-57 (Nabi), 6-121 (Gulbadin), 7-123 (Rashid), 8-136 (Dawlat), 9-145 (Najibullah), 10-152 (Hamid) Bowling: Malinga 6.4-0-39-3 (3w); Lakmal 6-0-27-0 (2w); Udana 6-0-28-1 (1nb); Pradeep 9-1-31-4 (4w); Perera 4-0-19-1 (2w), De Silva 1-0-7-0

World Cup: Sri Lanka fight back to beat Afghanistan by 34 runs

Sri Lanka's batsmen must show more patience under pressure in Tuesday's "must-win" encounter against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+world+cup">World Cup</a> dark horses Afghanistan to put their crushing opening-round defeat behind them, pacer Lasith Malinga said on Monday.

New Zealand thumped Sri Lanka without losing a single wicket in Cardiff on Saturday to begin their campaign in style after seam bowlers Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson skittled them out for 136.

Skipper Dimuth Karunaratne contributed an unbeaten 52 in that total as the Sri Lankan top-order's vulnerability in bowler-friendly conditions was exposed and Malinga said that a similar performance against Afghanistan would cost them dear.

"Patience is very important. We know these conditions, we can have someone get 60-70 runs and still the ball can move. Whoever the batsman is, he has to finish the game," Malinga told a news conference at the same venue.

"I feel players need to get confidence... we need to get mentally tough. The pressure is with us, yes, but we have to play free and do our best.

"At the moment we want to be concerned with our own skill and how we're going to play. (It is) a must-win game tomorrow. We'll try our best... in accuracy and tactically, everything hopefully will be there tomorrow."

Afghanistan fared only slightly better against defending champions Australia in their opener, losing by seven wickets, but Malinga is not taking them lightly.

"I think they have experienced players because most of them play in franchise cricket. They know how to accelerate and they have confidence," he added.

"The important thing is handling pressure... that's the big challenge for us."

Afghanistan captain Gulbadin Naib, meanwhile, said his team were targeting a morale-boosting victory against the former champions to get back on track.

"We have the opportunity to do well against them. I hope if we play 50 overs, batting, then definitely we can beat them," he said.

"If we play 50 overs, maybe (it will be) difficult for them... I saw the Sri Lankans play and they've lost a few games in the last two years... they're struggling in one-day matches."

Sri Lanka's batsmen must show more patience under pressure in Tuesday's "must-win" encounter against World Cup dark horses Afghanistan to put their crushing opening-round defeat behind them, pacer Lasith Malinga said on Monday.

Sri Lanka's batsmen must show more patience under pressure in Tuesday's "must-win" encounter against World Cup dark horses Afghanistan to put their crushing opening-round defeat behind them, pacer Lasith Malinga said on Monday. New Zealand thumped Sri Lanka without losing a single wicket in Cardiff on Saturday to begin their campaign in style after seam bowlers Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson skittled them out for 136. Skipper Dimuth Karunaratne contributed an unbeaten 52 in that total as the Sri Lankan top-order's vulnerability in bowler-friendly conditions was exposed and Malinga said that a similar performance against Afghanistan would cost them dear. "Patience is very important. We know these conditions, we can have someone get 60-70 runs and still the ball can move. Whoever the batsman is, he has to finish the game," Malinga told a news conference at the same venue. "I feel players need to get confidence... we need to get mentally tough. The pressure is with us, yes, but we have to play free and do our best. "At the moment we want to be concerned with our own skill and how we're going to play. (It is) a must-win game tomorrow. We'll try our best... in accuracy and tactically, everything hopefully will be there tomorrow." Afghanistan fared only slightly better against defending champions Australia in their opener, losing by seven wickets, but Malinga is not taking them lightly. "I think they have experienced players because most of them play in franchise cricket. They know how to accelerate and they have confidence," he added. "The important thing is handling pressure... that's the big challenge for us." Afghanistan captain Gulbadin Naib, meanwhile, said his team were targeting a morale-boosting victory against the former champions to get back on track. "We have the opportunity to do well against them. I hope if we play 50 overs, batting, then definitely we can beat them," he said. "If we play 50 overs, maybe (it will be) difficult for them... I saw the Sri Lankans play and they've lost a few games in the last two years... they're struggling in one-day matches."

'Players need to get confidence,' says Lasith Malinga ahead of Afghanistan clash

WION Exclusive: WION's Associate Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay in conversation with Nishantha Ranatunga Former Secretary of Sri Lanka cricket. Watch video to know more.

WION speaks to Nishantha Ranatunga former secretary of Sri Lanka's cricket

Sri Lankan cricketer Dasun Shanaka barely survived one of the deadly blasts <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-colombo-on-high-alert-following-reports-of-explosives-laden-van-212903">that killed at least 321 people in the island nation on Easter Sunday,</a> and says the horrific scenes have left him "scared" to go out.

The 27-year-old allrounder skipped Easter service at St Sebastian's Church in his hometown of Negombo because of a long trip the day before, he told Cricinfo.

It was among six churches and hotels targeted by suicide bombers who also injured 500 more&nbsp;-- the worst violence seen in the country since a civil war ended a decade ago.

The government has <a href="https://www.wionews.com/west-asia/islamic-state-claims-responsibility-for-sri-lanka-bombings-212899">blamed the attacks on Islamist militants</a>.

"Normally I would have gone to church... (but) I was tired," Shanaka told.

"That morning, when I was at my house, I heard a sound, and then people were saying a bomb had gone off at the church. I rushed there, and I'll never forget the scene.

"The entire church was destroyed, absolutely shattered, and people were dragging lifeless bodies outside." The destruction at St Sebastian's was still visible Tuesday -- parts of broken religious statues and smashed pews littered the floor -- as funerals of victims were held.

More people are believed to have died in the blast at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/i-have-sought-a-report-on-why-intelligence-wasnt-shared-sri-lanka-pm-wickremesinghe-212958">St Sebastian's than any of the other attacks, with the local hospital receiving more than 100 bodies</a>.

"If you saw the scene, you would know there was no way anyone inside could have survived, because simply the debris from the blast had injured everyone even in the vicinity," Shanaka told Cricinfo.

After the blast, the cricketer rushed to the church looking for his mother and grandmother, who were at the Easter service. Both survived, he said, but his grandmother required surgery because she was hit in the head with shrapnel.

Shanaka -- who has played three Tests, 19 one-day internationals, and 27 Twenty20s for Sri Lanka -- described his hometown as "a safe haven of sorts" where there have never been communal problems.

But he told Cricinfo that the Easter blasts have shaken that sense of security: "I'm scared to go onto the streets."&nbsp;

Sri Lankan cricketer Dasun Shanaka barely survived one of the deadly blasts that killed at least 321 people in the island nation on Easter Sunday, and says the horrific scenes have left him "scared" to go out.

Sri Lankan cricketer Dasun Shanaka barely survived one of the deadly blasts that killed at least 321 people in the island nation on Easter Sunday, and says the horrific scenes have left him "scared" to go out. The 27-year-old allrounder skipped Easter service at St Sebastian's Church in his hometown of Negombo because of a long trip the day before, he told Cricinfo. It was among six churches and hotels targeted by suicide bombers who also injured 500 more -- the worst violence seen in the country since a civil war ended a decade ago. The government has blamed the attacks on Islamist militants. "Normally I would have gone to church... (but) I was tired," Shanaka told. "That morning, when I was at my house, I heard a sound, and then people were saying a bomb had gone off at the church. I rushed there, and I'll never forget the scene. "The entire church was destroyed, absolutely shattered, and people were dragging lifeless bodies outside." The destruction at St Sebastian's was still visible Tuesday -- parts of broken religious statues and smashed pews littered the floor -- as funerals of victims were held. More people are believed to have died in the blast at St Sebastian's than any of the other attacks, with the local hospital receiving more than 100 bodies. "If you saw the scene, you would know there was no way anyone inside could have survived, because simply the debris from the blast had injured everyone even in the vicinity," Shanaka told Cricinfo. After the blast, the cricketer rushed to the church looking for his mother and grandmother, who were at the Easter service. Both survived, he said, but his grandmother required surgery because she was hit in the head with shrapnel. Shanaka -- who has played three Tests, 19 one-day internationals, and 27 Twenty20s for Sri Lanka -- described his hometown as "a safe haven of sorts" where there have never been communal problems. But he told Cricinfo that the Easter blasts have shaken that sense of security: "I'm scared to go onto the streets."

Sri Lankan cricketer Dasun Shanaka recounts church bombing horror

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis was at a loss to explain his side's surprise 2-0 home Test series loss to Sri Lanka, an unexpected setback for a team hoping to topple India as the number one side in the world.

Sri Lanka became the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-defy-the-odds-to-claim-historic-test-series-win-199197">first Asian team to win a Test series in South Africa</a> and ended the Proteas' run of seven home series wins in a row, after an epic one-wicket win in Durban and a convincing eight-wicket success in Port Elizabeth on Saturday.

"It's probably up there with the most disappointed I have been, certainly from a personal perspective but also for the team," Du Plessis told reporters.

"You don't want to be losing series at home, and obviously we didn't play our best cricket. It's a massive dent, I thought up until this Test series we were looking good. But credit to the team that played the best cricket.

"We were playing well, we were playing positive, aggressive Test cricket. But these last two Tests we were not on it as a team. I wish I can give you an explanation as to why."

South Africa's batting has been a concern for some time and failed again in the series, with a top score of 259 in their four innings.

The batting troubles have often been masked by a much-vaunted bowling line-up that has rescued the team on a number of occasions in Tests.

South Africa have passed 300 eight times in their last 28 innings, which includes being bowled out for 73 by Sri Lanka in Galle last July.

Their cause has not been helped by the seamer-friendly wickets that the team asks for on home soil, though Du Plessis refused to blame the Port Elizabeth pitch for their latest loss.

"There is no finger to be pointed at the wicket. Obviously, they (Sri Lanka) bowled well, but the biggest disappointment is the batting," the captain said.

"We have got some really good batters in there, but probably 99 per cent of the dismissals were soft judgement errors.

"When I was batting it felt like a really good wicket. In the first innings, there was a little bit of nip now and then, but it was a good batting surface."

World Cup

The makeup of the South African one-day international side is different from the Test team, but Du Plessis said they don't want the disappointment of the series loss to hinder the 50-over team just months out from the World Cup in England.

"There is a big five months coming up, so for us it's making sure that you never take your preparation for granted," he said.

"If you see the guys starting to slack a bit in terms of that then you address it as soon as possible because that is the one area you can control.

"The guys should be very motivated for what is coming up, it is one series and then the World Cup."

South Africa and Sri Lanka will next contest a five-match ODI series that starts on March 3.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis was at a loss to explain his side's surprise 2-0 home Test series loss to Sri Lanka, an unexpected setback for a team hoping to topple India as the number one side in the world.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis was at a loss to explain his side's surprise 2-0 home Test series loss to Sri Lanka, an unexpected setback for a team hoping to topple India as the number one side in the world. Sri Lanka became the first Asian team to win a Test series in South Africa and ended the Proteas' run of seven home series wins in a row, after an epic one-wicket win in Durban and a convincing eight-wicket success in Port Elizabeth on Saturday. "It's probably up there with the most disappointed I have been, certainly from a personal perspective but also for the team," Du Plessis told reporters. "You don't want to be losing series at home, and obviously we didn't play our best cricket. It's a massive dent, I thought up until this Test series we were looking good. But credit to the team that played the best cricket. "We were playing well, we were playing positive, aggressive Test cricket. But these last two Tests we were not on it as a team. I wish I can give you an explanation as to why." South Africa's batting has been a concern for some time and failed again in the series, with a top score of 259 in their four innings. The batting troubles have often been masked by a much-vaunted bowling line-up that has rescued the team on a number of occasions in Tests. South Africa have passed 300 eight times in their last 28 innings, which includes being bowled out for 73 by Sri Lanka in Galle last July. Their cause has not been helped by the seamer-friendly wickets that the team asks for on home soil, though Du Plessis refused to blame the Port Elizabeth pitch for their latest loss. "There is no finger to be pointed at the wicket. Obviously, they (Sri Lanka) bowled well, but the biggest disappointment is the batting," the captain said. "We have got some really good batters in there, but probably 99 per cent of the dismissals were soft judgement errors. "When I was batting it felt like a really good wicket. In the first innings, there was a little bit of nip now and then, but it was a good batting surface." World Cup The makeup of the South African one-day international side is different from the Test team, but Du Plessis said they don't want the disappointment of the series loss to hinder the 50-over team just months out from the World Cup in England. "There is a big five months coming up, so for us it's making sure that you never take your preparation for granted," he said. "If you see the guys starting to slack a bit in terms of that then you address it as soon as possible because that is the one area you can control. "The guys should be very motivated for what is coming up, it is one series and then the World Cup." South Africa and Sri Lanka will next contest a five-match ODI series that starts on March 3.

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis bemused by team's loss to Sri Lanka

India captain Virat Kohli is well ahead of his contemporaries and destined for greatness, former Sri Lankan batting stalwart Kumar Sangakkara has said.

Run-machine Kohli capped a memorable 2018 by becoming the first to win the International Cricket Council's (ICC) cricketer, Test and one-day international (ODI) player of the year awards last month.

Considered part of the elite group also featuring Kiwi Kane Williamson, Australian Steve Smith and England's Joe Root, Kohli has surged ahead after a stupendous 2018 and is currently the top-ranked Test as well as a one-day batsman.

"Everything about Virat's game stands out. I think he is head and shoulders above anyone else in world cricket today," Sangakkara told India Today news channel.

"And I think going forward, he will be one of the greatest ever cricketers, if not the greatest ever," said the Sri Lankan batting great.

With 39 centuries from 222 one-day matches, Kohli is second only to compatriot Sachin Tendulkar - who scored 49 from 463 - in the 50-over century makers' list.

He has also scored 25 hundreds in 77 Tests.

Sangakkara is amazed by Kohli's ability to success across formats without tinkering his basis game.

"He has this incredible knack of scoring runs and has a very, very solid method that he believes in..." said the former Sri Lanka captain.

"... if you see the tempo which he bats with, it hardly changes. He does read the situation very well.

"He is a very passionate guy, you see that in his expressions on the field... it's the overall aspect of both the person and how he has sorted his batting and his attitude."

Sangakkara's former team mate Mahela Jayawardene lauded how Kohli handled the pressure of leading the team of a cricket-mad nation of 1.3 billion.

"It's not just about the ability Virat has but to understand the way to handle pressure not just on the field but also off the field and the expectations," said the former Sri Lanka captain.

"We grew up with Sachin who had to perhaps experience the same thing. And for the next generation, it's probably on Virat's shoulders..." Jayawardene said.

India captain Virat Kohli is well ahead of his contemporaries and destined for greatness, former Sri Lankan batting stalwart Kumar Sangakkara has said. Run-machine Kohli capped a memorable 2018 by becoming the first to win the International Cricket Council's (ICC) cricketer, Test and one-day international (ODI) player of the year awards last month.

India captain Virat Kohli is well ahead of his contemporaries and destined for greatness, former Sri Lankan batting stalwart Kumar Sangakkara has said. Run-machine Kohli capped a memorable 2018 by becoming the first to win the International Cricket Council's (ICC) cricketer, Test and one-day international (ODI) player of the year awards last month. Considered part of the elite group also featuring Kiwi Kane Williamson, Australian Steve Smith and England's Joe Root, Kohli has surged ahead after a stupendous 2018 and is currently the top-ranked Test as well as a one-day batsman. "Everything about Virat's game stands out. I think he is head and shoulders above anyone else in world cricket today," Sangakkara told India Today news channel. "And I think going forward, he will be one of the greatest ever cricketers, if not the greatest ever," said the Sri Lankan batting great. With 39 centuries from 222 one-day matches, Kohli is second only to compatriot Sachin Tendulkar - who scored 49 from 463 - in the 50-over century makers' list. He has also scored 25 hundreds in 77 Tests. Sangakkara is amazed by Kohli's ability to success across formats without tinkering his basis game. "He has this incredible knack of scoring runs and has a very, very solid method that he believes in..." said the former Sri Lanka captain. "... if you see the tempo which he bats with, it hardly changes. He does read the situation very well. "He is a very passionate guy, you see that in his expressions on the field... it's the overall aspect of both the person and how he has sorted his batting and his attitude." Sangakkara's former team mate Mahela Jayawardene lauded how Kohli handled the pressure of leading the team of a cricket-mad nation of 1.3 billion. "It's not just about the ability Virat has but to understand the way to handle pressure not just on the field but also off the field and the expectations," said the former Sri Lanka captain. "We grew up with Sachin who had to perhaps experience the same thing. And for the next generation, it's probably on Virat's shoulders..." Jayawardene said.

Virat Kohli above peers, destined for greatness: Kumar Sangakkara

Sri Lanka cricket legend <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Arjuna+Ranatunga">Arjuna Ranatunga</a> predicted Friday that the country would fall short at this year's World Cup because of corruption by officials and player indiscipline.

Ranatunga, who captained the side that won the 1996 World Cup, doubted that Sri Lanka would even get past the first round of the tournament that begins in England on May 30.

"There is corruption at the board. Players are demoralised. Players are fighting with each other," said the 55-year-old.

Ranatunga, who is currently Sri Lanka's transport minister, is preparing a new bid to take charge of Sri Lanka Cricket.

He told reporters in Colombo that the national cricket board and several unnamed players were responsible for the national team's recent poor performances.

Sri Lanka, who are currently touring Australia, lost the first Test by an innings and 40 runs after losing a two-Test series to New Zealand 1-0. Sri Lanka also lost the three one-day internationals and the one-off T20 match.

"We have to improve player discipline," Ranatunga said amid social media squabbling between T20 captain Lasith Malinga and stand-in captain Tissara Perera.

Sri Lanka Cricket has warned both players to quit the personal attacks but the outbursts continue.

However, Ranatunga said Sri Lanka should be better motivated and psychologically prepared for the World Cup.

He said he would contest board elections this month on a promise to turnaround the national team.

"There are some players who are not playing for the country but for their own personal gain," Ranatunga said, without naming alleged culprits. "They will be kicked out."

The crisis-ridden governing body is expected to hold elections this month after a nine-month delay following the end of president Thilanga Sumathipala's term last May.

Sri Lanka cricket legend Arjuna Ranatunga predicted Friday that the country would fall short at this year's World Cup because of corruption by officials and player indiscipline.

Sri Lanka cricket legend Arjuna Ranatunga predicted Friday that the country would fall short at this year's World Cup because of corruption by officials and player indiscipline. Ranatunga, who captained the side that won the 1996 World Cup, doubted that Sri Lanka would even get past the first round of the tournament that begins in England on May 30. "There is corruption at the board. Players are demoralised. Players are fighting with each other," said the 55-year-old. Ranatunga, who is currently Sri Lanka's transport minister, is preparing a new bid to take charge of Sri Lanka Cricket. He told reporters in Colombo that the national cricket board and several unnamed players were responsible for the national team's recent poor performances. Sri Lanka, who are currently touring Australia, lost the first Test by an innings and 40 runs after losing a two-Test series to New Zealand 1-0. Sri Lanka also lost the three one-day internationals and the one-off T20 match. "We have to improve player discipline," Ranatunga said amid social media squabbling between T20 captain Lasith Malinga and stand-in captain Tissara Perera. Sri Lanka Cricket has warned both players to quit the personal attacks but the outbursts continue. However, Ranatunga said Sri Lanka should be better motivated and psychologically prepared for the World Cup. He said he would contest board elections this month on a promise to turnaround the national team. "There are some players who are not playing for the country but for their own personal gain," Ranatunga said, without naming alleged culprits. "They will be kicked out." The crisis-ridden governing body is expected to hold elections this month after a nine-month delay following the end of president Thilanga Sumathipala's term last May.

Former Lankan captain Arjuna Ranatunga predicts Sri Lanka heading for World Cup disaster

Tim Southee's prophecy before the start of the first Test against Sri Lanka came true on the opening day of the match as he took his eighth five-wicket haul at the Basin Reserve on Saturday.

Sri Lanka reached stumps at 275 for nine, after a stubborn fightback from opener Dimuth Karunaratne, who made 79, and former captain Angelo Mathews (83) rescued the touring side from early trouble.

The duo combined for a fourth-wicket stand of 133 after seamer Southee had reduced the visitors to nine for three inside the first four overs.

Niroshan Dickwella remained unbeaten on 73 to further thwart New Zealand's attack in the final session.

The 30-year-old Southee had spoken on Thursday of liking the look of a green pitch in Wellington after low, slow and spin friendly pitches in the United Arab Emirates in his team's 2-1 series victory against Pakistan.

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Southee takes fine five-for, but half-centuries from Karunaratne, Mathews and Dickwella help Sri Lanka reach 275/9 by stumps on Day 1. 
 
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He had also mentioned, however, that looks could be deceiving and while a green pitch might help initially, the Basin Reserve wicket tends to flatten out and become easier for batsmen to score later on.

After Kane Williamson won the toss and chose to bowl, Southee wasted no time in proving his worth on a humid, but fine day.

He trapped Danushka Gunathilaka in front for one on the final ball of his first over, had Dhananjaya de Silva caught by wicketkeeper BJ Watling for one before Kusal Mendis (two) flicked a delivery to Ajaz Patel at midwicket.

Karunaratne, who was caught off a no-ball from Colin de Grandhomme on 33, defied the initial onslaught and went on to bring up his 21st Test half century, while Mathews scored his 33rd to resurrect their innings.

Wicketkeeper Dickwella then attacked New Zealand's bowlers, whose lengths shortened as the day progressed, with inventive scoops, flicks and aggressive shots behind square to produce an entertaining 10th Test half century.

Tim Southee's prophecy before the start of the first Test against Sri Lanka came true on the opening day of the match as he took his eighth five-wicket haul at the Basin Reserve on Saturday.

Tim Southee's prophecy before the start of the first Test against Sri Lanka came true on the opening day of the match as he took his eighth five-wicket haul at the Basin Reserve on Saturday. Sri Lanka reached stumps at 275 for nine, after a stubborn fightback from opener Dimuth Karunaratne, who made 79, and former captain Angelo Mathews (83) rescued the touring side from early trouble. The duo combined for a fourth-wicket stand of 133 after seamer Southee had reduced the visitors to nine for three inside the first four overs. Niroshan Dickwella remained unbeaten on 73 to further thwart New Zealand's attack in the final session. The 30-year-old Southee had spoken on Thursday of liking the look of a green pitch in Wellington after low, slow and spin friendly pitches in the United Arab Emirates in his team's 2-1 series victory against Pakistan. Southee takes fine five-for, but half-centuries from Karunaratne, Mathews and Dickwella help Sri Lanka reach 275/9 by stumps on Day 1. REPORT ⬇️https://t.co/xjLHJjrtxh pic.twitter.com/y2oo6kFYwG — ICC (@ICC) December 15, 2018 × He had also mentioned, however, that looks could be deceiving and while a green pitch might help initially, the Basin Reserve wicket tends to flatten out and become easier for batsmen to score later on. After Kane Williamson won the toss and chose to bowl, Southee wasted no time in proving his worth on a humid, but fine day. He trapped Danushka Gunathilaka in front for one on the final ball of his first over, had Dhananjaya de Silva caught by wicketkeeper BJ Watling for one before Kusal Mendis (two) flicked a delivery to Ajaz Patel at midwicket. Karunaratne, who was caught off a no-ball from Colin de Grandhomme on 33, defied the initial onslaught and went on to bring up his 21st Test half century, while Mathews scored his 33rd to resurrect their innings. Wicketkeeper Dickwella then attacked New Zealand's bowlers, whose lengths shortened as the day progressed, with inventive scoops, flicks and aggressive shots behind square to produce an entertaining 10th Test half century.

NZvsSL: Tim Southee picks five as Sri Lanka reach 275-9 in first Test

Sri Lanka off-spinner Akila Dananjaya has been suspended from bowling in international cricket over an illegal action, the International Cricket Council announced on Monday.&nbsp;

Dananjaya was reported over a suspect bowling action during last month's first Test of the England series in Sri Lanka, which the tourists won by 211 runs on their way to a 3-0 whitewash.&nbsp;

He underwent an independent assessment of his bowling action on November 23 in Brisbane which revealed his deliveries exceeded the 15-degrees level of tolerance permitted under the regulations.&nbsp;

"The International Cricket Council today announced that an independent assessment has found the bowling action of Sri Lanka's off-spinner Akila Dananjaya to be illegal and, as such he has been suspended from bowling in international cricket with immediate effect," the ICC said in a statement.&nbsp;

Dananjaya's suspension will be also enforced by all national cricket federations for domestic matches, though he may be able to play domestically in Sri Lanka with the permission of Sri Lanka Cricket.&nbsp;

The 25-year-old, who has played five Tests since making his debut against Bangladesh in February, must now modify his action before applying for further testing and possible reinstatement.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka off-spinner Akila Dananjaya has been suspended from bowling in international cricket over an illegal action, the International Cricket Council announced on Monday.

Sri Lanka off-spinner Akila Dananjaya has been suspended from bowling in international cricket over an illegal action, the International Cricket Council announced on Monday. Dananjaya was reported over a suspect bowling action during last month's first Test of the England series in Sri Lanka, which the tourists won by 211 runs on their way to a 3-0 whitewash. He underwent an independent assessment of his bowling action on November 23 in Brisbane which revealed his deliveries exceeded the 15-degrees level of tolerance permitted under the regulations. "The International Cricket Council today announced that an independent assessment has found the bowling action of Sri Lanka's off-spinner Akila Dananjaya to be illegal and, as such he has been suspended from bowling in international cricket with immediate effect," the ICC said in a statement. Dananjaya's suspension will be also enforced by all national cricket federations for domestic matches, though he may be able to play domestically in Sri Lanka with the permission of Sri Lanka Cricket. The 25-year-old, who has played five Tests since making his debut against Bangladesh in February, must now modify his action before applying for further testing and possible reinstatement.

Sri Lanka bowler Akila Dananjaya suspended over illegal action: ICC

Off-spinner Moeen Ali struck twice in three deliveries as England completed a 57-run victory in the second test against Sri Lanka on the final day on Sunday to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Left-arm spinner Jack Leach picked up the final wicket of the Sri Lanka innings to complete a maiden five-wicket haul in his third test with the hosts all out for 243.

Sri Lanka, who resumed the final day on 226-7 needing 75 for victory, kept the England spinners at bay for 15 minutes in the morning before Moeen dismissed Niroshan Dickwella, who was caught at slip by Ben Stokes for 35.

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Spinners Jack Leach and Moeen Ali lead England to a series-clinching win over Sri Lanka in the second Test.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLvENG</a> REPORT ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/4dpg8wupVP">https://t.co/4dpg8wupVP</a> <a href="https://t.co/DCzLuUf7Hc">pic.twitter.com/DCzLuUf7Hc</a>
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The off-spinner then sent back Sri Lanka's stand-in captain Suranga Lakmal for a duck two deliveries later.

Malinda Pushpakumara spooned a catch straight back to Leach as England completed their first away series win in tests since they won in South Africa at the beginning of 2016.

Off-spinner Moeen Ali struck twice in three deliveries as England completed a 57-run victory in the second test against Sri Lanka on the final day on Sunday to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Off-spinner Moeen Ali struck twice in three deliveries as England completed a 57-run victory in the second test against Sri Lanka on the final day on Sunday to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Left-arm spinner Jack Leach picked up the final wicket of the Sri Lanka innings to complete a maiden five-wicket haul in his third test with the hosts all out for 243. Sri Lanka, who resumed the final day on 226-7 needing 75 for victory, kept the England spinners at bay for 15 minutes in the morning before Moeen dismissed Niroshan Dickwella, who was caught at slip by Ben Stokes for 35. Spinners Jack Leach and Moeen Ali lead England to a series-clinching win over Sri Lanka in the second Test.#SLvENG REPORT ⬇️https://t.co/4dpg8wupVP pic.twitter.com/DCzLuUf7Hc — ICC (@ICC) November 18, 2018 × The off-spinner then sent back Sri Lanka's stand-in captain Suranga Lakmal for a duck two deliveries later. Malinda Pushpakumara spooned a catch straight back to Leach as England completed their first away series win in tests since they won in South Africa at the beginning of 2016.

ENG vs SL, 2nd Test: England beat Sri Lanka by 57 runs to bag series

England's left-arm spinner Jack Leach led a strong spin bowling display that put the tourists within three wickets of a series-clinching victory against Sri Lanka on an intriguing fourth day of the second test on Saturday.

Chasing 301 to win on a turning Pallekele track, Sri Lanka reached 226 for seven when rain ended play for the second consecutive day with the hosts still needing 75 to square the three-test series at 1-1.

Combative half-centuries from former captain Angelo Mathews and opener Dimuth Karunaratne had set Sri Lanka up nicely in their chase after Leach's brilliant spell of spin bowling with the new ball had reduced them to 26-3.

But off-spinner Moeen Ali and Leach, who has already taken a career-best 4-73 in an innings, brought England right back in the game by dismissing Mathews for 88 and Dilruwan Perera for two respectively in quick succession after the tea break.

Sri Lanka's hopes on the final day will rest on wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella, who was unbeaten on 27 at the close of play.

Leach had given England the ideal start when he lured Kaushal Silva out of his crease with a flighted delivery to be stumped for four.

Dhananjaya de Silva was out to a smart catch by Keaton Jennings at short leg for one while Kusal Mendis was also trapped lbw for the same score, with England overturning the umpire's not out decision on review.

Karunaratne made a dogged 57 and it was his fourth-wicket stand of 77 with the experienced Mathews that revived Sri Lanka's chase.

England wasted chances to dismiss Karunaratne and Mathews with all-rounder Ben Stokes the guilty fielder and off-spinner Moeen Ali the unfortunate bowler on both occasions.

Karunaratne, who made 63 in the first innings, was on 21 when his edge off Moeen flew past Stokes at slip and the batsman also successfully overturned a leg before decision off Adil Rashid on review.

Karunaratne was finally out to some brilliant fielding at short leg from Jennings, who anticipated a sweep shot from the batsman and moved smartly to his left to parry the ball to wicketkeeper Ben Foakes for a catch off Rashid.

Stokes missed a relatively easier chance when he dropped Mathews at slip with the batsman on seven. The right-hander made England pay dearly with another stand of 73 with Roshen Silva for the fifth wicket.

England missed a chance to dismiss Silva, who had top-scored for the hosts with 85 in the first innings, on 32 when they failed to review a not-out verdict to an lbw shout off Moeen. Replays showed it would have been overturned in their favour.

Moeen sent Silva back on 37 with England captain Joe Root opting to successfully review another not out decision for a bat-pad catch.

Mathews and Dickwella thwarted England further with an attacking 45-run stand for the sixth wicket before Moeen dismissed Mathews leg before.

England had batted for about 20 minutes in the morning before they were all out for 346 for a lead of 300. Foakes followed up his debut century during the win in Galle with an unbeaten 65.

Akila Dananjaya, who was reported for a suspect bowling action after the Galle test but is free to play, notched up career-best figures of 6-115 for the hosts.

England's left-arm spinner Jack Leach led a strong spin bowling display that put the tourists within three wickets of a series-clinching victory against Sri Lanka on an intriguing fourth day of the second test on Saturday.

England's left-arm spinner Jack Leach led a strong spin bowling display that put the tourists within three wickets of a series-clinching victory against Sri Lanka on an intriguing fourth day of the second test on Saturday. Chasing 301 to win on a turning Pallekele track, Sri Lanka reached 226 for seven when rain ended play for the second consecutive day with the hosts still needing 75 to square the three-test series at 1-1. Combative half-centuries from former captain Angelo Mathews and opener Dimuth Karunaratne had set Sri Lanka up nicely in their chase after Leach's brilliant spell of spin bowling with the new ball had reduced them to 26-3. But off-spinner Moeen Ali and Leach, who has already taken a career-best 4-73 in an innings, brought England right back in the game by dismissing Mathews for 88 and Dilruwan Perera for two respectively in quick succession after the tea break. Sri Lanka's hopes on the final day will rest on wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella, who was unbeaten on 27 at the close of play. Leach had given England the ideal start when he lured Kaushal Silva out of his crease with a flighted delivery to be stumped for four. Dhananjaya de Silva was out to a smart catch by Keaton Jennings at short leg for one while Kusal Mendis was also trapped lbw for the same score, with England overturning the umpire's not out decision on review. Karunaratne made a dogged 57 and it was his fourth-wicket stand of 77 with the experienced Mathews that revived Sri Lanka's chase. England wasted chances to dismiss Karunaratne and Mathews with all-rounder Ben Stokes the guilty fielder and off-spinner Moeen Ali the unfortunate bowler on both occasions. Karunaratne, who made 63 in the first innings, was on 21 when his edge off Moeen flew past Stokes at slip and the batsman also successfully overturned a leg before decision off Adil Rashid on review. Karunaratne was finally out to some brilliant fielding at short leg from Jennings, who anticipated a sweep shot from the batsman and moved smartly to his left to parry the ball to wicketkeeper Ben Foakes for a catch off Rashid. Stokes missed a relatively easier chance when he dropped Mathews at slip with the batsman on seven. The right-hander made England pay dearly with another stand of 73 with Roshen Silva for the fifth wicket. England missed a chance to dismiss Silva, who had top-scored for the hosts with 85 in the first innings, on 32 when they failed to review a not-out verdict to an lbw shout off Moeen. Replays showed it would have been overturned in their favour. Moeen sent Silva back on 37 with England captain Joe Root opting to successfully review another not out decision for a bat-pad catch. Mathews and Dickwella thwarted England further with an attacking 45-run stand for the sixth wicket before Moeen dismissed Mathews leg before. England had batted for about 20 minutes in the morning before they were all out for 346 for a lead of 300. Foakes followed up his debut century during the win in Galle with an unbeaten 65. Akila Dananjaya, who was reported for a suspect bowling action after the Galle test but is free to play, notched up career-best figures of 6-115 for the hosts.

ENG vs SL, 2nd Test, Day 4: Jack Leach's four-wicket haul brings England close in on series victory

England captain Joe Root hit a brilliant century to put his team in a strong position in their quest for a series-clinching victory on the third day of the second Test against Sri Lanka on Friday.

Opener Rory Burns had earlier struck his maiden fifty as England, who lead the three-match series 1-0 after last week's win in Galle, reached 324 for nine in their second innings at stumps, a lead of 278 on a pitch offering plenty of turn.

Wicketkeeper Ben Foakes, playing his second Test, further stretched England's lead after the dismissal of Root for 124 and was unbeaten on 51 with James Anderson four not out when bad light and rain brought an end to the day's play.

Root and Foakes added 82 for the seventh wicket, dampening Sri Lanka's hopes of restricting England's lead to a manageable target at Pallekele after reducing them to 219-6 at one stage.

Akila Dananjaya, who was reported for a suspect bowling action after the Galle Test but is free to play, notched up career-best figures of 6-106 but his third-five wicket haul in only his fifth Test might still prove inadequate.

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England close day three 278 runs ahead of Sri Lanka with one wicket in hand. 
 
Whose position would you rather be in?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLvENG</a> REPORT👇<a href="https://t.co/vnRfOBHDrP">https://t.co/vnRfOBHDrP</a> <a href="https://t.co/cxA463Id80">pic.twitter.com/cxA463Id80</a>
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When play resumed in the morning, the tourists lost nightwatchman Jack Leach for one in the second over of the day, bringing regular openers Burns and Keaton Jennings together.

While Burns looked at ease against Sri Lanka's spinners with his nimble footwork, Jennings opted to utilise the reverse sweep to thwart the threat.

The duo added 73 before Jennings' most productive shot brought an end to his knock for 26, the ball clipping the batsman's glove before carrying to the slip fielder Dhananjaya de Silva for a simple catch.

Burns, playing in his second Test, hit seven boundaries in his knock and was out leg before for 59 to Malinda Pushpakumara while trying to sweep the left-arm spinner. The batsman reviewed the decision but was unsuccessful.

England suffered a further jolt in the next over when all-rounder Ben Stokes also fell leg before, for a duck, missing a sweep against off-spinner Dilruwan Perera.

Stokes, who faced just two deliveries, also opted to go for a review but lost it.

Root, who received a reprimand and one demerit point from the International Cricket Council on Thursday for a show of dissent, and Jos Buttler looked to attack the spinners during their stand of 74 to give England the upper hand.

Buttler's entertaining knock of 34 came to a premature end when he dragged spinner Akila Dananjaya on to his stumps with an attempted reverse sweep.

Moeen Ali also did not last long and was out leg before to Dananjaya, but Root appeared unmoved by the fall of wickets around him.

He brought up a deserving 15th Test hundred with 10 fours and two sixes in his knock, using the sweep shot to good effect against Sri Lanka's slow bowling attack.

Root leapt for joy and punched the air after reaching the three-figure mark with a streaky boundary.

Dananjaya removed Root and Sam Curran, who smashed 64 in the first innings, in consecutive deliveries and also dismissed Adil Rashid, who was unfortunate to be given out lbw as replays showed he had got an edge.

England captain Joe Root hit a brilliant century to put his team in a strong position in their quest for a series-clinching victory on the third day of the second Test against Sri Lanka on Friday.

England captain Joe Root hit a brilliant century to put his team in a strong position in their quest for a series-clinching victory on the third day of the second Test against Sri Lanka on Friday. Opener Rory Burns had earlier struck his maiden fifty as England, who lead the three-match series 1-0 after last week's win in Galle, reached 324 for nine in their second innings at stumps, a lead of 278 on a pitch offering plenty of turn. Wicketkeeper Ben Foakes, playing his second Test, further stretched England's lead after the dismissal of Root for 124 and was unbeaten on 51 with James Anderson four not out when bad light and rain brought an end to the day's play. Root and Foakes added 82 for the seventh wicket, dampening Sri Lanka's hopes of restricting England's lead to a manageable target at Pallekele after reducing them to 219-6 at one stage. Akila Dananjaya, who was reported for a suspect bowling action after the Galle Test but is free to play, notched up career-best figures of 6-106 but his third-five wicket haul in only his fifth Test might still prove inadequate. England close day three 278 runs ahead of Sri Lanka with one wicket in hand. Whose position would you rather be in?#SLvENG REPORT👇https://t.co/vnRfOBHDrP pic.twitter.com/cxA463Id80 — ICC (@ICC) November 16, 2018 × When play resumed in the morning, the tourists lost nightwatchman Jack Leach for one in the second over of the day, bringing regular openers Burns and Keaton Jennings together. While Burns looked at ease against Sri Lanka's spinners with his nimble footwork, Jennings opted to utilise the reverse sweep to thwart the threat. The duo added 73 before Jennings' most productive shot brought an end to his knock for 26, the ball clipping the batsman's glove before carrying to the slip fielder Dhananjaya de Silva for a simple catch. Burns, playing in his second Test, hit seven boundaries in his knock and was out leg before for 59 to Malinda Pushpakumara while trying to sweep the left-arm spinner. The batsman reviewed the decision but was unsuccessful. England suffered a further jolt in the next over when all-rounder Ben Stokes also fell leg before, for a duck, missing a sweep against off-spinner Dilruwan Perera. Stokes, who faced just two deliveries, also opted to go for a review but lost it. Root, who received a reprimand and one demerit point from the International Cricket Council on Thursday for a show of dissent, and Jos Buttler looked to attack the spinners during their stand of 74 to give England the upper hand. Buttler's entertaining knock of 34 came to a premature end when he dragged spinner Akila Dananjaya on to his stumps with an attempted reverse sweep. Moeen Ali also did not last long and was out leg before to Dananjaya, but Root appeared unmoved by the fall of wickets around him. He brought up a deserving 15th Test hundred with 10 fours and two sixes in his knock, using the sweep shot to good effect against Sri Lanka's slow bowling attack. Root leapt for joy and punched the air after reaching the three-figure mark with a streaky boundary. Dananjaya removed Root and Sam Curran, who smashed 64 in the first innings, in consecutive deliveries and also dismissed Adil Rashid, who was unfortunate to be given out lbw as replays showed he had got an edge.

ENG vs SL, 2nd Test: Root's ton puts England on top against Sri Lanka

England beat Sri Lanka by 211 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the first Test of three-match series at the Galle International Stadium on Friday.

Sri Lanka chasing a 462-run target, were all out for 250 on day four, with Moeen Ali taking four wickets and Jack Leach three.

England had secured a first innings lead of 139 and on Thursday an unbeaten 146 by Keaton Jennings, his first century since a ton on his 2016 debut, allowed Root to declare at 322 for six.

Fifteen without loss overnight, openers Kaushal Silva and Dimuth Karunaratne withstood the pressure from England's formidable bowling attack for the first hour.

But both fell after attacking shots, with Kaushal leg before trying to sweep Leach for 30 and Karunaratne caught and bowled by Ali for 26 and skipped down the pitch for an attempted heave.

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That's the game! 
 
England win by 211 runs, with Moeen Ali taking four wickets, Jack Leach three, and Ben Stokes snaffling three catches. Rangana Herath's final Test ends with him run out for five.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLvENG</a> 1st Test score ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/aBGojY53Jw">https://t.co/aBGojY53Jw</a> <a href="https://t.co/IDeg9ugZ20">pic.twitter.com/IDeg9ugZ20</a>
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Dhananjaya de Silva, after a confident start, was caught at first slip by skipper Joe Root off Ben Stokes in the last over of the morning session for 21.

One ball earlier, de Silva had been given out caught behind flashing at a Stokes delivery wide of the off stump, but he was reprieved on review.

After lunch Kusal Mendis hit Leach for four over his head but attempting a repeat the next ball skied the ball to Ali and departed for 46.&nbsp;

He had earlier appeared confident at the crease, employing the sweep shot especially well against all England’s spinners, while secure in defence.&nbsp;

Home skipper Dinesh Chandimal, suffering from a groin injury that kept him off the pitch all of Thursday, was bowled by Leach for 11.

The final session began badly for the hosts. Niroshan Dikwella fell the first ball after tea, caught adroitly by Stokes one-handed at slip off Ali for 16.&nbsp;

Soon afterwards Angelo Mathews -- dropped on 18 by James Anderson -- went for 53, caught by Jos Buttler at midwicket with Ali again the wicket-taker.

He was followed into the pavillon by Akila Dananjaya for 8 before Herath was run out for five.&nbsp;

England's varied attack, with three quicks and three spinners, applied substantial pressure, with the slightly expensive Adil Rashid the only disappointment so far.&nbsp;

England beat Sri Lanka by 211 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the first Test of three-match series at the Galle International Stadium on Friday. Sri Lanka chasing a 462-run target, were all out for 250 on day four, with Moeen Ali taking four wickets and Jack Leach three.

England beat Sri Lanka by 211 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the first Test of three-match series at the Galle International Stadium on Friday. Sri Lanka chasing a 462-run target, were all out for 250 on day four, with Moeen Ali taking four wickets and Jack Leach three. England had secured a first innings lead of 139 and on Thursday an unbeaten 146 by Keaton Jennings, his first century since a ton on his 2016 debut, allowed Root to declare at 322 for six. Fifteen without loss overnight, openers Kaushal Silva and Dimuth Karunaratne withstood the pressure from England's formidable bowling attack for the first hour. But both fell after attacking shots, with Kaushal leg before trying to sweep Leach for 30 and Karunaratne caught and bowled by Ali for 26 and skipped down the pitch for an attempted heave. That's the game! England win by 211 runs, with Moeen Ali taking four wickets, Jack Leach three, and Ben Stokes snaffling three catches. Rangana Herath's final Test ends with him run out for five.#SLvENG 1st Test score ⬇️https://t.co/aBGojY53Jw pic.twitter.com/IDeg9ugZ20 — ICC (@ICC) November 9, 2018 × Dhananjaya de Silva, after a confident start, was caught at first slip by skipper Joe Root off Ben Stokes in the last over of the morning session for 21. One ball earlier, de Silva had been given out caught behind flashing at a Stokes delivery wide of the off stump, but he was reprieved on review. After lunch Kusal Mendis hit Leach for four over his head but attempting a repeat the next ball skied the ball to Ali and departed for 46. He had earlier appeared confident at the crease, employing the sweep shot especially well against all England’s spinners, while secure in defence. Home skipper Dinesh Chandimal, suffering from a groin injury that kept him off the pitch all of Thursday, was bowled by Leach for 11. The final session began badly for the hosts. Niroshan Dikwella fell the first ball after tea, caught adroitly by Stokes one-handed at slip off Ali for 16. Soon afterwards Angelo Mathews -- dropped on 18 by James Anderson -- went for 53, caught by Jos Buttler at midwicket with Ali again the wicket-taker. He was followed into the pavillon by Akila Dananjaya for 8 before Herath was run out for five. England's varied attack, with three quicks and three spinners, applied substantial pressure, with the slightly expensive Adil Rashid the only disappointment so far.

ENG vs SL, 1st Test: England beat Sri Lanka by 211 runs, take 1-0 lead

England stretched their lead to 250 runs after Keaton Jennings' unbeaten 60 helped them to 111 for three in their second innings at lunch on day three of the opening test against Sri Lanka on Thursday.

Jennings and debutant Rory Burns put on 60 for the opening stand but England lost three wickets in quick succession to lose some of their early momentum.

Jennings, who made 46 in the first innings, hit four boundaries in his patient knock. Ben Stokes was on 14 at the other end at the Galle International Stadium.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/day2-sri-lanka-all-out-for-203-in-galle-test-176070">England had resumed at 38 for no loss</a> with the openers consolidating their position until Burns' pursuit for a non-existent single culminated with his dismissal.

Burns pushed Dilruwan Perera to midwicket and started off but could not beat Dimuth Karunaratne's direct throw and he was dismissed for 23.

Moeen Ali's 4-66 helped England take a 139-run first innings lead but the all-rounder, for the second time in the match, could not justify his promotion to number three.

He followed up his first innings golden duck with three, tamely hitting Perera straight to Rangana Herath at mid-on.

England captain Joe Root also had a deja vu moment when Herath dismissed him for the second time in the match.

Playing his final test, left-arm spinner Herath drew the England captain out and bowled slightly wide to induce an edge that safely nestled into Niroshan Dickwella's gloves.

Root made three to leave his side at 74 for three.

Jennings, looking reasonably comfortable against the Sri Lankan spinners steadied the innings and took a single off Akila Dananjaya to bring up his second fifty.

England stretched their lead to 250 runs after Keaton Jennings' unbeaten 60 helped them to 111 for three in their second innings at lunch on day three of the opening test against Sri Lanka on Thursday.

England stretched their lead to 250 runs after Keaton Jennings' unbeaten 60 helped them to 111 for three in their second innings at lunch on day three of the opening test against Sri Lanka on Thursday. Jennings and debutant Rory Burns put on 60 for the opening stand but England lost three wickets in quick succession to lose some of their early momentum. Jennings, who made 46 in the first innings, hit four boundaries in his patient knock. Ben Stokes was on 14 at the other end at the Galle International Stadium. England had resumed at 38 for no loss with the openers consolidating their position until Burns' pursuit for a non-existent single culminated with his dismissal. Burns pushed Dilruwan Perera to midwicket and started off but could not beat Dimuth Karunaratne's direct throw and he was dismissed for 23. Moeen Ali's 4-66 helped England take a 139-run first innings lead but the all-rounder, for the second time in the match, could not justify his promotion to number three. He followed up his first innings golden duck with three, tamely hitting Perera straight to Rangana Herath at mid-on. England captain Joe Root also had a deja vu moment when Herath dismissed him for the second time in the match. Playing his final test, left-arm spinner Herath drew the England captain out and bowled slightly wide to induce an edge that safely nestled into Niroshan Dickwella's gloves. Root made three to leave his side at 74 for three. Jennings, looking reasonably comfortable against the Sri Lankan spinners steadied the innings and took a single off Akila Dananjaya to bring up his second fifty.

ENG vs SL, 1st Test, Day 3: England lead stretched to 250 after Jennings fifty

Opener Keaton Jennings ended his two-year wait for a second Test century with a career-best 146 not out as England inched towards a comprehensive victory in the opening Test against Sri Lanka on Thursday.

Having taken a handy 139-run first-innings lead, England declared their second innings on 322 for six to set Sri Lanka an improbable 462-run victory target.

The hosts ended day three on 15 for no loss, 447 behind and staring at a crushing defeat inside four days in spinner Rangana Herath's farewell Test.

Openers Dimuth Karunaratne (seven) and Kaushal Silva (eight) survived seven overs but Sri Lanka will need a near miracle to save the Test.

Earlier, the tourists resumed on 38-0 and their openers consolidated their position until they suffered a mini-collapse.

Debutant Rory Burns's (23) foolhardy pursuit of a non-existent single culminated in his run-out and Moeen Ali could not justify his promotion to number three for the second time in the match, following up his first-innings golden duck with three.

England captain Joe Root (three) also had a deja vu moment when Herath dismissed him for the second time in the match.

Jennings, however, looked confident against the spinners, often playing the sweep shot -- both traditional and reverse -- to negate them.

Ben Stokes, Jennings' partner in their 107-run fourth-wicket partnership, shrugged off his early tentativeness to clobber three sixes in his 62 before Dilruwan Perara spun one past his bat to hit the top of the off-stump with a beautiful delivery.

Jennings, who hit a hundred in his debut Test against India in 2016, took a single off Dhananjaya de Silva to end his century drought.

The 26-year-old pumped air while running before taking his helmet off and raising his bat in celebration.

The left-hander's patient 280-ball knock included nine fours as he demonstrated to his team mates how to play spin in the sub-continent.

Jos Buttler made 35 and England's first-innings hero Ben Foakes contributed 37 before Root decided to give his bowler a go at the Sri Lankan openers in fading light.

Herath claimed three wickets in his 93rd and final Test at the same venue where the 40-year-old left-arm spinner made his debut against Australia in 1999.

Opener Keaton Jennings ended his two-year wait for a second Test century with a career-best 146 not out as England inched towards a comprehensive victory in the opening Test against Sri Lanka on Thursday.

Opener Keaton Jennings ended his two-year wait for a second Test century with a career-best 146 not out as England inched towards a comprehensive victory in the opening Test against Sri Lanka on Thursday. Having taken a handy 139-run first-innings lead, England declared their second innings on 322 for six to set Sri Lanka an improbable 462-run victory target. The hosts ended day three on 15 for no loss, 447 behind and staring at a crushing defeat inside four days in spinner Rangana Herath's farewell Test. Openers Dimuth Karunaratne (seven) and Kaushal Silva (eight) survived seven overs but Sri Lanka will need a near miracle to save the Test. Earlier, the tourists resumed on 38-0 and their openers consolidated their position until they suffered a mini-collapse. Debutant Rory Burns's (23) foolhardy pursuit of a non-existent single culminated in his run-out and Moeen Ali could not justify his promotion to number three for the second time in the match, following up his first-innings golden duck with three. England captain Joe Root (three) also had a deja vu moment when Herath dismissed him for the second time in the match. Jennings, however, looked confident against the spinners, often playing the sweep shot -- both traditional and reverse -- to negate them. Ben Stokes, Jennings' partner in their 107-run fourth-wicket partnership, shrugged off his early tentativeness to clobber three sixes in his 62 before Dilruwan Perara spun one past his bat to hit the top of the off-stump with a beautiful delivery. Jennings, who hit a hundred in his debut Test against India in 2016, took a single off Dhananjaya de Silva to end his century drought. The 26-year-old pumped air while running before taking his helmet off and raising his bat in celebration. The left-hander's patient 280-ball knock included nine fours as he demonstrated to his team mates how to play spin in the sub-continent. Jos Buttler made 35 and England's first-innings hero Ben Foakes contributed 37 before Root decided to give his bowler a go at the Sri Lankan openers in fading light. Herath claimed three wickets in his 93rd and final Test at the same venue where the 40-year-old left-arm spinner made his debut against Australia in 1999.

ENG vs SL, 1st Test, Day 3: England scent victory after Jennings century

Sri Lanka's left-arm bowler Rangana Herath is retiring earlier than expected and will bid farewell after next month's opening Test against England in Galle, the cricket board announced Monday.

Herath, 40, was expected to bow out at the conclusion of England's three-Test tour, but he will now call it quits from international cricket at the same ground where he made his Test debut against Australia in 1999.

"We respect and support Rangana's decision even though his retirement will be a big loss for Sri Lanka Cricket," the Sri Lankan board said.

"We wish to thank him for the invaluable contribution he has made." Herath has played 92 Tests, taking 430 wickets -- making him Sri Lanka's second most prolific bowler behind Muttiah Muralitharan, who holds the all-time world record of 800.

His last ODI appearance was in Wellington against England in March 2015. The first Test against England starts on November 6.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka's left-arm bowler Rangana Herath is retiring earlier than expected and will bid farewell after next month's opening Test against England in Galle, the cricket board announced Monday.

Sri Lanka's left-arm bowler Rangana Herath is retiring earlier than expected and will bid farewell after next month's opening Test against England in Galle, the cricket board announced Monday. Herath, 40, was expected to bow out at the conclusion of England's three-Test tour, but he will now call it quits from international cricket at the same ground where he made his Test debut against Australia in 1999. "We respect and support Rangana's decision even though his retirement will be a big loss for Sri Lanka Cricket," the Sri Lankan board said. "We wish to thank him for the invaluable contribution he has made." Herath has played 92 Tests, taking 430 wickets -- making him Sri Lanka's second most prolific bowler behind Muttiah Muralitharan, who holds the all-time world record of 800. His last ODI appearance was in Wellington against England in March 2015. The first Test against England starts on November 6.

Rangana Herath to retire after first Test against England

A day after the International Cricket Council (ICC) charged Sanath Jayasuriya with corruption, the World cup winning captain said he has always conducted himself with 'integrity and transparency'.&nbsp;

"I am initially required to submit my response within 14 days. I am under strict legal advise that no comment is to be made in respect of the above charges as such a course would offend the ICC Rules."

The 49-year-old, who served as Sri Lanka's chairman of selectors said he would comment further only after his response to the ICC is submitted.

"However, I am under advise to state that the above charges do not contain any allegations pertaining to match-fixing, pitch fixing or any other similar corrupt activity," he said.

"I have always conducted myself with integrity and transparency with matters concerning the sport and I will continue to do so," he added.

Jayasuriya was charged with two counts of breaching the anti-corruption code - non-cooperation in the investigation and for concealing, tampering with or destroying any documentation or other information that may be relevant.

Jayasuriya, one of Sri Lanka's greatest cricketers, was the player of the 1996 World Cup which is the country's first and only World Cup trophy.&nbsp;

A day after the International Cricket Council (ICC) charged Sanath Jayasuriya with corruption, the World cup winning captain said he has always conducted himself with 'integrity and transparency'.

A day after the International Cricket Council (ICC) charged Sanath Jayasuriya with corruption, the World cup winning captain said he has always conducted himself with 'integrity and transparency'. "I am initially required to submit my response within 14 days. I am under strict legal advise that no comment is to be made in respect of the above charges as such a course would offend the ICC Rules." The 49-year-old, who served as Sri Lanka's chairman of selectors said he would comment further only after his response to the ICC is submitted. "However, I am under advise to state that the above charges do not contain any allegations pertaining to match-fixing, pitch fixing or any other similar corrupt activity," he said. "I have always conducted myself with integrity and transparency with matters concerning the sport and I will continue to do so," he added. Jayasuriya was charged with two counts of breaching the anti-corruption code - non-cooperation in the investigation and for concealing, tampering with or destroying any documentation or other information that may be relevant. Jayasuriya, one of Sri Lanka's greatest cricketers, was the player of the 1996 World Cup which is the country's first and only World Cup trophy.

Jayasuriya denies corruption charges, says always conducted himself with 'integrity and transparency'

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