Date:27/11/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/11/27/stories/2007112757772100.htm

Sport - Cricket

England in bad shape

COLOMBO: England’s Test tour of Sri Lanka hit a low on Monday after injury scares to two key bowlers — Steve Harmison and James Anderson — increased the agony of a miserable batting display in a practice match.

Fast bowler Matthew Hoggard finally gave England reason to smile with a hostile opening spell.

The home team, which made 298 for nine declared in the first innings, slumped to 77 for eight in its second knock by stumps, a lead of 241 runs.

The scores: Sri Lanka Cricket XI 298 for nine decl. & 77 for eight (M. Udawatte 45, Matthew Hoggard five for 25) vs. England 134 (R. Bopara 47, Sujeewa de Silva four for 41). — Agencies