Sri Lankan opener Pathum Nissanka has etched his name in the history books with a remarkable century in the fourth innings of the Oval Test against England. In a match that will be remembered for years, Nissanka played a crucial role in securing Sri Lanka’s victory, showcasing his skill and determination on English soil.
Nissanka, who was not included in the playing eleven for the first Test, made a strong comeback in the series. After a modest performance at Lord’s, where he managed just 26 runs across both innings, Nissanka turned the tables at The Oval. In the first innings, he provided a solid start with a half-century, setting the stage for what was to come. But it was in the second innings that Nissanka truly shined, scoring an unbeaten 127 off 124 balls.
This century is historic as it marks the first time a Sri Lankan batsman has scored a century in the fourth innings of a Test match in England. Chasing 220 runs, Nissanka’s calm and composed approach guided Sri Lanka to a comfortable 8-wicket win. His innings included 14 fours and 2 sixes, reflecting his ability to mix caution with aggression.
Nissanka’s century places him among an elite group of Sri Lankan openers who have scored centuries against England in Test cricket. He joins the ranks of legends like Sanath Jayasuriya, Tillakaratne Dilshan, and Marvan Atapattu. His partnerships during the chase were equally important, particularly the 111-run stand with Angelo Mathews, which ensured that Sri Lanka crossed the finish line with ease.
Despite being relatively new to international cricket, with only 11 Tests under his belt, Nissanka has already shown great promise. His career statistics are impressive, boasting 750 runs at an average of 44.11, including 2 centuries and 6 half-centuries. His performance in this Test match has cemented his place as a key player for Sri Lanka moving forward.
Pathum Nissanka’s century at The Oval is not just a personal milestone but a significant achievement for Sri Lankan cricket. His innings will be remembered as one of the finest by a Sri Lankan batsman on English soil, and it highlights the talent and potential he brings to the team.
