England find new star in Smith

Jamie Smith’s nerveless cameo helped steady the ship for England as they chased a tricky 205 to beat Sri Lanka in the first Test at Old Trafford. Smith, a centurion in the first innings, joined Joe Root with the hosts wobbling at 119 for 4, still needing 86 and with a longer-than-usual tail.

Eventual player of the match Smith was circumspect to start with but then opened his shoulders as the target got within range, eventually falling with just 22 runs required. Root’s calmness under fire took England home, the former captain hitting an unbeaten 62 with just two boundaries, the second of which finished the game as he skipped down the pitch and launched the ball down the ground.

Full report: https://www.thecricketpaper.com/latest-news-international-news-2/400947/smith-and-root-lead-england-to-nervy-victory/