England Survive With Draw       
England produced an outstanding rearguard action in Sri Lanka to  bring the match to a draw in the opening Test of the three-match series against Sri Lanka. The tail-enders stood up to the Sri Lankan spinners for a long three hours on a surface providing prodigious turn amid high tension.                                                                            

The weather once again, played a role, and Sri Lanka could not get the last wicket before the umpires drew proceedings to a halt due to bad light. England captain Michael Vaughan hailed a great team effort after his side escaped defeat.

"I think we can be very proud of the team. To lose the toss on this pitch and fight for five days is an exceptional effort", said Vaughan. "It was pretty nervous (in the dressing room), though Ashley had a fantastic game and there were some fantastic performances throughout the team. We showed great character to get the draw".

Murali was named man of the match after claiming eleven wickets in the match. 

Test Match Itinerary

1st Test - 2-6 December, Galle
2nd Test - 10-14 December, Kandy
3rd Test - 18-22 December, Colombo   

                              
       
Written by Martin Hardy on behalf of ISM