Nissanka's composed century sealed a consolation win for Sri Lanka within four days.
Sri Lanka: 263 (Dhananjaya 69, Kamindu 64, Nissanka 64) and 219 for 2 (Nissanka 127)
England: 325 (Pope 154, Duckett 86) and 156 (Smith 67, Kumara 4-21, Vishwa 3-40)
The atmosphere at The Oval on a crisp Monday morning reflected a mix of anticipation and relief as Sri Lanka chased down a target of 219, securing their first Test victory in England since 2014. Pathum Nissanka’s patient century ensured Sri Lanka's triumph, though the series ended 3-1 in England’s favour. For the visitors, the win offered a morale boost, especially after falling 2-0 down earlier in the series.
Resuming on 94 for 1, needing 125 more runs to win, Nissanka remained unbeaten on 127 from 124 balls. His century, which included a series of well-timed boundaries, followed his first-innings knock of 64. Supported by Angelo Mathews, Nissanka's efforts secured victory by eight wickets in just 25.3 overs on the final day.
England’s bowling lacked its usual potency, managing only one wicket on the fourth day. Gus Atkinson, recovering from a thigh injury, took the only dismissal, aided by a brilliant diving catch by Shoaib Bashir to remove Kusal Mendis for 39. However, the English attack struggled to contain Nissanka, who confidently built his innings with precision and composure.
Nissanka brought up his second Test century by slicing a Woakes delivery to the boundary, followed by an impressive six over deep backward square. He sealed the win with a sharp cut off Bashir to the boundary, ensuring Sri Lanka's famous victory.
The third day had been pivotal for Sri Lanka’s bowlers, who bundled England out for 156 in their second innings, with Lahiru Kumara and Vishwa Fernando leading the charge. England's struggles included a first-innings collapse from 261 for 3 to 325 all out, which ultimately cost them the match.
While England’s Test summer continues with an upcoming series against Australia, this is a victory Sri Lanka will cherish for a long time.