The management of the England team took a risk by starting Jamie Smith in the ongoing summer rather than players like Jonny Bairstow and Ben Foakes. When the young player made his debut earlier in the year in the West Indies series, he scored 70 runs in his opening innings. His innings of 95 in the third Test of the series secured his place in the Sri Lanka series playing XI.
Jamie Smith was given more responsibility in the middle order against Sri Lanka because to the absence of skipper Ben Stokes. When he stepped out to bat in the first innings of the Manchester Test, the hosts were 125/4 and desperately needed a partnership. He went on to score his first century in international cricket while forming significant alliances with Chris Woakes and Harry Brook.
Thanks to his important knock, England amassed 358 runs in the opening innings, giving them a 122-run advantage. When discussing his centenary, Smith said he was thrilled to read the words of those who had helped him along the way and that it was an extremely proud moment for him.
“Having missed out by five runs in the previous series, it feels good to reach this great milestone (his maiden international tonne).” It’s remarkable that you crossed the boundary and gave us the lead in the first innings. It is the truly wonderful feeling you get when, after a long day of play, you read the messages you’ve received from everyone who has supported and participated in your trip. During the post-match presentation, Smith stated, “Very proud moment.”
The second innings saw Sri Lanka rally. Dinesh Chandimal and Angelo Mathews each scored fifty runs, and Kamindu Mendis amassed a hundred. It was not an easy task, but England eventually managed to chase down more than 200 runs in the last innings.
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“It was an attritional chase, always a bit of a challenge, but they bowled brilliantly. Root had good playing skills and let others play all around him. A fun team to be a part of, Smith added, “representing your country abroad is a true honour.”
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