England’s last two Test wins showcased two sides of their game and two different elements of the talent of Jamie Smith, all of which bodes nicely for the evolution of this team. At Edgbaston against West Indies a month ago, Ben Stokes slotted England’s quickest half century in the race to victory and Smith smote a six high and wide over the Hollies Stand in his thrilling, career announcing 95. This time England put Bazball in cold storage and eked out 205 to win, finishing the game off in the evening light at 7.
15pm to preserve their 100 percent record this summer. Smith played with patience and maturity to settle a nervy England and set them on the path to victory alongside Joe Root in a man of the match performance in only his fourth Test. Coming in at 119 for four, England 86 short and Sri Lanka playing a clever game on a tricky pitch, heavy outfield and shivering conditions, Smith bided his time, making six off his first 25 balls as he played himself in, clearly studying how Root does his best work.
England get their first boundary in an hour courtesy of Jamie Smith 😳 — Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) His first four off his 26th ball was followed next delivery by perfectly pulling spinner Prabath Jayasuriya for six over midwicket when he dropped short and suddenly nerves were settled. Root, at the other end, took his cue and hit his first four off his 95th ball, head down in true Yorkshire over-my-dead-body style. Smith was bowled playing a drive with 22 needed .