Mahela makes most of dropped chance

Jayawardene was caught on the leg side by Gariant Jones off Andrew Flintoff when the stylish batsman was on 119.

The skipper, who was dropped by Andrew Strauss at third slip after scoring 58, reached his century through four overthrows from Sajid Mahmood after more than five hours at the crease. Sri Lanka had begun the day on 183 for three still needing 176 to make England bat again.

Maharoof, whose batting in this match has been distinctly more impressive than his efforts with the new ball, also benefitted from sloppy England fielding.

Maharoof reached his second Test half-century after lunch from 133 deliveries with five fours. Heavy rain is forecast for Monday.

Brief scores

England 551 for six decl; vs Sri Lanka 192 and 339/5 Jayawardene 103, Sangakkara 65, Mahroof 59; Panesar 2/34.