Joe Root became the first England batsman to score over 150 in consecutive Tests in 16 years as he tormented Sri Lanka and led his side to 339/9 in their first innings, at close of play on Day III of the second and final Test here on Sunday.

Root followed up his 228 in the first Test to match the feat of Marcus Trescothick, who scored 194 and 151 in consecutive Tests against Bangladesh back in 2005.

However, the tired and cramping England captain was dismissed in the final over of the day for 186, run out after clipping the ball to Oshada Fernando at short leg. Along with Root, Jos Buttler too made a fine contribution for England, hitting 55.

Root’s weariness did not allow him to get back into his crease, as he looked to get a second straight double century.

Sri Lanka spinner Lasith Embuldeniya was excellent with career-best figures of 7/132.

Brief scores: Sri Lanka 381. England 339/9 (J. Root 186, J. Buttler 55; L. Embuldeniya 7/132). At stumps, Day III.