"Nissanka has bazballed bazball" - Fans hail Sri Lankan opener for incredible match-winning century in 3rd England Test 2024

Sri Lankan opener Pathum Nissanka smashed a brilliant century to help the side complete a memorable win against England in the third Test at the Oval on September 9. After missing out on the playing XI in the first Test, Nissanka returned in the second encounter but endured twin failures with the bat.

However, the classy batter was back to his best in the series finale, scoring a crucial 51-ball 64 in the first innings to help the visitors keep the deficit to only 62 runs. Yet, the best was still to come as Nissanka completed his second Test century in the fourth innings to help the Lankans complete a stiff run-chase of 219 with eight wickets to spare.

It was also his first Test century since his debut game against the West Indies in 2021.

Nissanka eventually finished with a majestic 127* off 124 deliveries to help Sri Lanka avoid a series whitewash and finish at 1-2.

Fans on Twitter hailed the talented youngster for a stunning fourth innings display with the following reactions:

Fans continued to praise Nissanka with one saying:

"Nissanka have bazballed bazball."

"Pathum nissanka should currently be considered one of the top 3 best all-format batsmen," said a fan.

"Pathum Nissanka's century in the 4th innings of a run chase is a remarkable achievement! Scoring a hundred off just 107 balls under pressure speaks volumes about his composure and skill. Such innings in a chase are always special, especially when they come at a crucial time. Nissanka's ability to handle the situation with that strike rate makes it even more impressive," a fan tweeted.

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"Slightly difficult [conditions] in the morning but I had a positive mindset" - Pathum Nissanka

Pathum Nissanka admitted that the conditions were tricky at the start of Day 4 and added that his positive mindset helped him overcome the same to help produce a memorable fourth-innings century.

Chasing 219, Sri Lanka began the fourth day at 94/1 under overcast conditions with Nissanka on 53*. However, they took only 25.3 overs to knock off the remaining 125 runs to end the series on a high.

At the post-match presentation, Nissanka, who was awarded the Player of the Match, said:

"Great opportunity to play in England, I enjoyed the innings. Slightly difficult [conditions] in the morning but I had a positive mindset and went with that. Wanted to play my normal game."

Nissanka's 127* was the fifth-highest score by a visiting batter in a successful run-chase in England.

Sri Lanka's 219 was also the highest-ever total chased down by an Asian side in England.