The first match of the three-match Test series between England and Sri Lanka is being played in Manchester from August 21. By the end of the third day’s play, the Sri Lankan team has scored 204 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in the second innings and the team is leading by 82 runs.

Young English batsman Jamie Smith scored his first international century in the first Test against Sri Lanka. When Smith came to bat, the team had lost 4 wickets for a score of 125 in the first innings. He then played some important partnerships with Harry Brook and Chris Woakes, with the help of which England scored 358 runs in the first innings.

Meanwhile, after scoring a century, Jamie Smith thanked mentor Ian Bell. Smith said that Bell played the role of a throwdown specialist for him before matches, which helped him improve.

Ian Bell has helped me a lot – Jamie Smith

England’s 24-year-old young batsman Jamie Smith said while talking on Cricbuzz,

Bailey (Ian Bell) has helped me a lot over the last few years, both at Lions and Birmingham Phoenix. I am really grateful for the knowledge he gave me and when I had my eye on the Test series, he became my throwdown specialist. I think it’s great when people want to be with you and help you. Even if they are in the opposing side. So I am grateful for his help.

Let us tell you, despite the presence of Jonny Bairstow and Ben Fox, the team management kept faith in Jamie Smith. Smith also performed well in the Test series against West Indies.

Ian Bell said a big thing in praise of Smith

Former great player Ian Bell says that Jamie Smith will become a world-class player for England in the future. He said,

He’s going to be a world-class player for England. He’s class and now we have to find ways to get him out in this series. I think I’ve played a small part in his development, but I’ve seen a guy who’s worked very hard.