Monday, July 4, 2016

England v Sri Lanka, ODI, Cardiff, 02/07/16

It was another successful hosting of a One-Day International by Glamorgan at the Swalec Stadium, where a large crowd saw England complete a 3-0 whitewash of an ordinary Sri Lankan side in the one day series.

In truth it was a rather routine win for England after posting 324 in their 50 overs, which, in all honesty, the tourists never looked like getting, falling all out for 202.

Early morning rain dampened spirits early on, delaying the start until 10.40 and then causing another stoppage at around 11. But, by the afternoon, the sun shone strongly on a bright and breezy afternoon, and the crowd filled up close to capacity (the Welsh football team's 3-1 win over Belgium in Euro 16 on the previous evening may have contributed to the slow start amongst the locals!)

England's batting progress was sedate by recent standards. The innings was anchored with the mighty Joe Root getting 93, but the highlight was a spectacular 70 off 45 balls from Jos Buttler. 324 felt a bit short by 30 or 40 runs against an nonthreatening Sri Lankan attack, with their spin bowlers looking particularly ordinary. 

In reply, Angelo Mathews' men did not at any stage look capable of scoring 300 + at over a run a ball. A tight initial powerplay (41/1 off 10) was backed up by more good bowling and fielding, England skipper Eoin Morgan afterwards described it as "our most complete display".

In truth, the last 20 overs or so were rather meandering with everyone just waiting for the inevitable demise of the visitors' lower order. But that should not detract from another efficient England performance and one more successful staging of an England game in the Welsh capital




Jason Roy and James Vince open up for England



but Surrey man Roy goes early



An excellent crowd.....



...in good weather....



...had built up by the afternoon



Root and Buttler starred in England's innings...



...Root scoring 93...



...and getting a great reception in Cardiff



Much better weather by the afternoon



Liam Plunkett looks on as England squeeze Sri Lanka

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