England Secures Series Victory Against Sri Lanka
In a thrilling second T20 match on Sunday, England triumphed over Sri Lanka by six wickets, following the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method, thus securing the series with a 2-0 lead in the run-up to the T20 World Cup set to begin this Saturday.
Match Highlights
At Pallekele, England chased down a revised target of 168 runs in just 16.4 overs, finishing at 173-4. Tom Banton emerged as the standout performer, remaining unbeaten on 54 from 33 deliveries, which included three sixes and four fours. Jos Buttler contributed significantly to the victory with 39 runs off 29 balls, demonstrating aggressive batting alongside Banton.
Sri Lanka’s Initial Performance
Prior to the match being interrupted by rain, Sri Lanka had set a challenging score of 189-5 in their 20 overs. Batting first after losing the toss, Pathum Nissanka initiated a strong start with a quickfire 34 runs from 22 balls, while Pavan Rathnayake was the top scorer for the island nation at 40 off 22 balls. Sri Lanka had a solid partnership of 56 runs for the first wicket between Nissanka and Kamil Mishara, who scored 36 runs. However, a burst of wickets by England’s bowlers, including Jofra Archer who grabbed 2-42, hindered their progress.
Impact of Rain on the Match
The match’s dynamics changed dramatically due to rainfall, which caused the game to be reduced to 17 overs for each side. At the interruption, England had reached 57-2 in the 7.2 overs, trailing the DLS score, following early dismissals including Phil Salt for just 1 run. After a lengthy 75-minute delay, England returned to the field with a new target, where Banton and Buttler formed a pivotal partnership of 43 runs before Buttler fell.
Banton continued to dominate, teaming up with Harry Brook, who added a swift 36 runs, and later with Sam Curran, who ensured the win with a solid innings of 20 not out.
Looking Ahead
The series will conclude with the final T20 at the same venue on Tuesday, following England’s narrow 11-run victory in the opening match that also faced rain interference. Follow our coverage of the cricketing world as the teams gear up for the upcoming T20 World Cup, where England aims to showcase its formidable batting and bowling prowess after a successful series in Sri Lanka.
