Sri Lanka vs. West Indies- 3rd Test- Fifth Day News and Preview

The rain continued to rob yet another Sri Lankan Test match of its worth.

A decent crowd arrived at the Pallekele Stadium yesterday in an attempt to finally witness some action, but only 22 overs were possible before the clouds opened up once again frustrating fans and players alike.

Sri Lanka's Rangana Herath bagged three wickets in five overs on the fourth day before the West Indies reached 303 for eight in their first innings.

Sulieman Benn ended unbeaten on 29, with the innings highlighted by two aggressive sixes.

The series is currently tied 0-0 following rain-hit Tests in both Colombo and Galle, and with this Test match very obviously heading for a draw, the series will end on a disappointing note.

The West Indies managed to add only 59 runs yesterday, with left-arm spinner Rangana Herath impressing during his spell.

Herath struck three times in the morning session with West Indies’ tail once again showing its vulnerability.

On the West Indies front, Nash showed tenacity in his innings of on 67, which came to an end when Herath fired one down the leg side early in the day. Nash attempted a sweep which took a bottom edge to Prasanna Jayawardene, who had moved smartly to collect.

Carlton Braugh was on his way quickly thereafter- being struck in front- also attempting to sweep.

The spinner continued to confuse the tail with a succession of beautifully flighted deliveries and was rewarded when Darren Sammy stepped onto the back foot to one that straightened. He was dead in front bringing his dreadful tour with the bat to an end.

Herath took three wickets for 24 runs in his morning's 10-over spell.

Play resumed when the weather seemed to show signs of turning after lunch, however another downpour only two and a half overs later resulted in play being called off for the day.

This series is heading towards a stalemate, and with all the attention completely focused on the Ashes, it has been somewhat of a disappointment for all.