'We won't roll over' - Cook

By Danny Hall

England batsman Alastair Cook insists that his England team will not capitulate and lose the series in Sri Lanka 2-0, even as they face likely defeat in Galle. The visitors need an unlikely 418 runs to avoid an innings defeat after their embarrassing first innings total of 81.

Any hopes of salvaging a series draw were quickly dashed when Sri Lanka mounted 499-8 in their first innings, before Paul Collingwood top-scored with 29 in a woeful innings of 81 all out. However, assisted by rain intervals, Cook insists that England can bat out the final day and avoid a 2-0 series defeat.

Cook said. “We will try to build partnerships on Saturday.

"We are a proud bunch of players, and we will not lie down and accept a 2-0 defeat in the series."

Cook and Ian Bell resume on Day 5 on 53 and 17 respectively, and the Essex left hander insists: “Come Saturday me and Ian Bell will be giving our utmost to save the game.”