Eoin Morgan and Samit Patel both hit centuries in last-gasp bids to seal Test spots as England Lions piled up 394 for four on the first day of a four-day match against Sri Lanka on Thursday. Morgan made 156 not out with Patel weighing in with an unbeaten 101 at Derby. Ravi Bopara could only muster 17 but he is still the favourite to play at number six when England tackle the Sri Lankans in the first Test which starts in Cardiff on May 26.
“The selectors were here today. Whoever plays well will probably play (in the first Test),” said Morgan. “I’ve only practised a couple of days since I got back from the IPL. Today to get some time in the middle has been really good. “I’m quite fresh. I’ve had a lot of cricket under my belt so I feel quite comfortable at the crease, but it’s nice to get some runs and spend time in the middle.”
Score: England Lions 394-4 (E Morgan 156 no, S Patel 101 no, J Taylor 76) v Sri Lanka
