MORGAN HAS MADE HIMSELF UNDROPPABLE

IF the idea that Eoin Morgan might drop himself from England’s one-day team seemed fanciful a few days ago, it is inconceivable now.

A typically resourceful innings of 92 from 91 balls was the cornerstone of his side’s 278 for nine in the second ODI in Dambulla. And when the rain came, at it tends to at this time of year in Sri Lanka, his side were well ahead on Duckworth-Lewis-Stern, thanks to three early wickets for Chris Woakes and a lively contribution from fast bowler Olly Stone.

On a characteristic Sri Lankan pitch that rewarded brain rather than brawn, Morgan was in the mood from the start, getting off the mark with a straight six off Tissara Perera and making liberal use of the sweep.

Only when he offered a tame return catch to Lasith Malinga — who dusted off his box of death-bowling tricks to collect five for 44 — did England’s captain put a foot wrong.

Stone, whose international debut on Wednesday was ruined by the weather, showed his gumption in an unbeaten last-wicket stand of 24, then underlined why England have given pace a chance, bouncing out the dangerous Niroshan Dickwella with his seventh ball at this level as the hosts limped to 140-5.

‘I don’t think you can disregard Olly from the World Cup based on today,’ admitted Morgan afterwards as England claimed a 31-run win on DLS.

Should the tourists win in Pallekele on Wednesday, they will be 2-0 up with two to play.