‘Very proud moment’ - Jamie Smith reflects on maiden international century

England team management made a bold decision to play Jamie Smith over the likes of Jonny Bairstow and Ben Foakes in the ongoing summer. The youngster debuted in the series against West Indies earlier in the year and scored 70 runs in his first innings. In the third Test of the series, he made 95 runs, which cemented his spot in the playing XI of the Sri Lanka series.

In the absence of captain Ben Stokes, Smith had additional responsibility in the middle order against Sri Lanka. The hosts were 125/4 and were in dire need of a partnership when he came out to bat in the first innings of the Manchester Test. He built important partnerships with Harry Brook and Chris Woakes and went on to register his maiden century in international cricket. 

Courtesy of his valuable knock, England posted 358 runs in the first innings, which helped them take a lead of 122 runs. Speaking about his century, Smith stated that it was a very proud moment for him and was happy to read the text of people who guided him throughout the journey.

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“It is a great milestone (on claiming his maiden international ton), having missed out by 5 runs in the previous series, it feels nice. To go over the line and to get us into the lead (in the first innings) is amazing. It is when you come back after a day's play and check those messages from all the people who have been part of your journey and supported you throughout, it really feels amazing. Very proud moment,” Smith said in the post-match presentation.

Sri Lanka fought back in their second innings. Angelo Mathews and Dinesh Chandimal hit a half-century each while Kamindu Mendis scored a century. England had over 200 runs to chase in the final innings, which was not easy but they eventually got the job done.

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“Always a semi-difficult chase, it was attritional and it was a nice wicket, but they bowled nicely. Root played well and allowed everyone to play around him. Enjoyable team to be part of, to be out there and represent your country is a great honour really,” said Smith.