**** England v Sri Lanka at Riverside ****

Game on, seems lacking in pace. Lights on whilst I am experiencing glorious sunshine in Berkshire.

Come on England.

I was a little surprised Cook opted to bat first after winning the toss. His own quest for 10,000 runs must wait for another day.

Compton's lack of confidence continues to show. He will be disappointed in the way he was dismissed.

On the plus side, Hales is amongst the runs again. 89/2 is a foundation to build on.

A solid 50 for Hales. Very pleased for him. Hopefully he can go on from here and score big.

England 95/2.

[quote author=dillinger10 link=topic=104381.msg695093#msg695093 date=1464351510]
Compton... will be disappointed in the way he was dismissed.
[/quote]

He hit the ball like Brian Lara, Ben stokes or his Father 

http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/v...19413.html

Root, as the great batsman do, follows up a duck with a 50.

Hales has looked more assured today than at Headingley. Looks much more ffluent.

A good hour after lunch for England. 153/2.

[quote author=dillinger10 link=topic=104381.msg695093#msg695093 date=1464351510]
I was a little surprised Cook opted to bat first after winning the toss. His own quest for 10,000 runs must wait for another day.

Compton's lack of confidence continues to show. He will be disappointed in the way he was dismissed.

On the plus side, Hales is amongst the runs again. 89/2 is a foundation to build on.
[/quote]

I was not surprised at his decision which is justified in the way the pitch has played.

Bell comes back for Compton as a final opportunity.

Is he still injured?

[quote author=dillinger10 link=topic=104381.msg695097#msg695097 date=1464356777]
Root, as the great batsman do, follows up a duck with a 50.

A good hour after lunch for England. 153/2.
[/quote]

It is his intent and ability to manoeuvre the ball, rotate strike that are so appealing plus he is an exception stroke maker.

Just heard Halo hit a six down the ground.

Damn, Halo gone missing out on his ton.... 83.

Well done Halo.

Hales again livid with himself. A fine innings comes to a premature end for the second Test in a row.

Mental : he just hit a SIX ....nexx stroke should be defensive

that was too tight for a cut !