Sri Lanka squared the three-match ODI series at 1-1 following a 16-run victory over England at Headingley, a result shaped by captain Kusal Mendis’s record-breaking century and a hamstring injury to Jos Buttler.
Mendis anchored the visitors’ innings, striking 121 runs off 100 deliveries. His knock, featuring 14 boundaries and three sixes, set a new record for the highest ODI score by a Sri Lankan captain at Headingley, surpassing the previous mark held by Sanath Jayasuriya. Sri Lanka finished on 321-6.
England’s pursuit of 322 began with a 143-run opening partnership between Ben Duckett and Tom Banton. However, the tactical turning point arrived through the left-arm spin of Dunith Wellalage. In a decisive spell, Wellalage broke the stand and dismissed Duckett (67), Banton (73), and the England captain Harry Brook (1) for the addition of 14 runs.
Jos Buttler appeared to have the chase under control, reaching 67 with England requiring 68 runs from the final 75 balls. Match analysis indicates the momentum shifted permanently when Buttler pulled up with a left hamstring injury and was forced to retire hurt. While he later returned to the crease, his limited mobility hampered England’s late-order surge. He was eventually dismissed for 69.
“I thought Sri Lanka played exceptionally well, especially the last 10-15 overs. They were electric in the field. They nailed every ball,” Harry Brook said after the match. “It was a staggering game. We will go back to our drawing board and try to bounce back.”
Sri Lanka secured the result while managing personnel losses, with spin spearhead Wanindu Hasaranga ruled out for the remainder of the series due to a chronic back problem. England also faced the match following the retirement of Mark Wood, who stepped away from international cricket on September 22 due to a recurring knee injury.
With the series locked at one win apiece, the teams travel to London for the decider. The third and final ODI is scheduled for Sunday, September 27, at The Oval.
