During the second session of the second day against Sri Lanka, England’s middle and lower order failed to continue their impressive batting performance. The increased reliance on aerial shots led to their quick dismissal, leaving the Three Lions with a total of 325 runs.
After lunch, the Sri Lankan innings resumed, but the match took an unexpected turn due to worsening weather conditions, catching both the English team and commentators off guard.
A notable run out saw Dimuth Karunaratne depart for nine, prompting umpires Chris Gaffaney and Joel Wilson to use a light meter to assess the dimming conditions. They inquired with England captain Ollie Pope about whether only spin bowling was permissible in the reduced light.
After a brief consultation with Chris Woakes, who had to switch to spin bowling, the Warwickshire pacer struggled with control and delivered a wide ball on the fourth delivery of his over.
— Gill Bill (@bill_gill76078) September 7, 2024
Joe Root’s concern was evident as he witnessed Woakes’ discomfort with spin, while Ben Stokes and the rest of the English team were visibly stunned. Stokes decided to retreat to the dressing room, and commentator Nasser Hussain was so shocked by the unfolding events that he nearly fell off his seat. Reactions on Twitter mirrored the surprise, reflecting a mix of astonishment at this rare occurrence.