England clinched the T20I series against Sri Lanka with a six-wicket victory at Sophia Gardens on Thursday. Chasing 146, the hosts reached 146/4 in just 12.1 overs to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
Jos Buttler became the first player in history to reach 15,000 career T20 runs during his 16-ball 30. He surpassed the previous record of 14,999 runs held by Kieron Pollard.
Liam Dawson was named Player of the Match for his spell of 3-32. After Pathum Nissanka and Lahiru Udara shared a 56-run opening stand, Dawson took two wickets in consecutive deliveries during the sixth over to shift the momentum. Sonny Baker contributed 1-15 from four overs, including a wicket maiden, while Jofra Archer claimed his 50th T20I wicket as Sri Lanka finished on 145/9.
Tom Banton recorded the fastest T20I half-century for England, finishing unbeaten on 52 from 24 balls. England completed the chase with 47 balls to spare, marking their largest margin of victory by balls remaining in T20Is against Sri Lanka.
England captain Harry Brook said: “Tonight was a special performance, very clinical. Sri Lanka got off to a flier but the way we fought back with the ball was outstanding.”
Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka said: “They were too good. We have to improve a lot, honestly, because we are not up to the mark right now.”
The result extends England’s winning streak over Sri Lanka to 14 consecutive T20Is. The series moves to Old Trafford in Manchester for the final T20I on Saturday, September 19.
