England Gains a Slim Advantage Over Sri Lanka

England managed to edge ahead of a determined Sri Lankan side during a rain-disrupted second day of the first Test at Emirates Old Trafford.

With Harry Brook and Jamie Smith leading the charge, England reached 259-6, securing a narrow 23-run lead. The day's play was curtailed by rain and poor light, making it a challenging outing for the hosts.

Sri Lanka kept England under pressure, reducing them to 67-3 after taking three wickets for just 37 runs. However, Brook, who teamed up with Joe Root for a 58-run partnership, steadied the innings. Later, he collaborated with wicketkeeper Smith for another crucial 62-run stand.

Brook's innings came to an end at 56, falling to Prabath Jayasuriya's sharp turner, leaving England at 5-186, still trailing Sri Lanka's 236 by 49 runs.

Smith, playing only his fourth Test, showed remarkable composure, finding a reliable partner in Chris Woakes. Together, they added England's third half-century partnership of the day, pushing the team into the lead. Woakes, however, couldn't withstand Jayasuriya's craft and became another casualty.

As play was called off with 22 overs left, Smith remained not out on 72. With more inclement weather looming over the next three days, England's slender lead could prove vital in this closely contested match.