31st May 2011 | Cricket
England stun Sri Lanka
A remarkable collapse from the tourists handed Andrew Strauss's side the most unlikely of victories.
Just hours after the bookies had all but given up on the first Test as a meaningful contest, England stormed to a thrilling win by an innings and 14 runs. After rain delayed yet another start to proceedings, Ian Bell swiftly completed his century before the hosts instantly declared on 496-5 - a lead of just 96. On a pitch that both teams had previously scored on for fun, Sri Lanka then proceeded to be skittled out for a woeful 82 as Tremlett, Broad and Swann did all the damage.
It was a remarkable outcome that few had seen coming judging by the paucity of the final day crowd in Cardiff. England are now installed at a best price of 4/6 with totesport to win the second Test at Lords next week. The tourists can be backed to restore parity at 15/2 with StanJames while the draw is 2/1 with Coral.
England are now a best price of just 1/10 with Bluesquare to claim the three match series. Sri Lanka are 40/1 with VictorChandler to pull off a stunning 2-1 reversal. Following his double century, Jonathan Trott is 5/4 favourite with Coral to finish as the top English batsman of the series. Alistair Cook is 9/4 with StanJames after his 133 runs.
Odds correct at time of publishing: 00:03 31st May, 2011 but subject to change
