Harry Brook and Ollie Pope continued to add runs in the morning session of the second day against Sri Lanka’s attack. With England already having secured an unassailable 2-0 series lead, the duo was unafraid to play aggressive, aerial shots.
One such shot almost led to Brook’s dismissal, but a missed opportunity by Asitha Fernando allowed the home crowd to cheer.
A few overs into the day, Milan Rathnayake delivered an outswinger on a fuller length targeting the fourth stump. Brook advanced slightly and attempted a lofted shot over the cover region.
However, he only managed to edge the ball off the toe of the bat, sending it high into the air towards deep cover. Asitha Fernando, stationed at deep cover, had ample time to settle under the catch but misjudged the ball.
— Gill Bill (@bill_gill76078) September 7, 2024
He stumbled in the outfield and watched helplessly as the ball dropped in front of him. The English crowd erupted in joy at the missed chance, while Asitha looked visibly frustrated. Meanwhile, Twitter was abuzz with commentary on the disappointing fielding display.