HARRY BROOK’S unbeaten half-century kept England ahead of the game as Sri Lanka fought hard on day two of the first Test at Old Trafford today.

After the morning’s play was wiped out by rain, the hosts found the going tough as they laboured to 67 for three — Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope and Dan Lawrence all departing in a taxing eight-over spell.

But 42 from Joe Root and Brook’s vital 53 not out allowed them to reach 176 for four after an extended afternoon session. They trailed by 60 runs at tea, with high hopes of building a strong lead around Brook and Jamie Smith’s fifth-wicket stand.