Match situation – England, having won the toss and chosen to bat, are 310 for 6

Alastair Cook won the toss and decided to bat first. This may have been seen as a slightly contentious decision given the overcast conditions and damp outfield suggested bowler-friendly conditions.

As it turned out, the England batsmen were never in too much trouble during the day, the odd low bounce apart, and the close of play score of 310 for 6 has to be seen as a missed opportunity. Hales, Root, Vince and Bairstow all got in and looked comfortable but they did not press home the advantage due in part to some superb Sri Lankan catching.

So, to analyse the day, England just about shaded the honours although Sri Lanka fought hard all day and always managed to get a wicket when things were looking grim.

At the moment the pitch looks low and slow but you can only truly judge a pitch when both sides have batted. Today should be very informative.