England registered a commanding 51-run victory over Sri Lanka in their Super 8 clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium today.
After winning the toss, Sri Lanka skipper Dasun Shanaka opted to bowl first, handing England the opportunity to set a target.
Phil Salt and Jos Buttler opened the innings, adding 16 runs for the first wicket before Buttler fell for 7 to Dunith Wellalage. Jacob Bethell (3) and Tim Banton (6) departed cheaply, while skipper Harry Brook managed 14. Sam Curran was dismissed for 11 as England struggled to build momentum.
However, Phil Salt stood tall with a crucial 62 before being dismissed by Wellalage. Will Jacks chipped in with 21 runs.
England posted 146 for 9 in their 20 overs. Dunith Wellalage was the pick of the bowlers with impressive figures of 3 for 26. Dilshan Madushanka and Maheesh Theekshana claimed two wickets apiece, while Dushmantha Chameera picked up one.
Chasing 147 for victory, Sri Lanka got off to a shaky start. Pathum Nissanka was dismissed for 9 with the score at 15. The top order collapsed quickly, losing three wickets for just 20 runs.
Kamil Mishara scored 6, while Wellalage added 10. The entire Sri Lankan side was bundled out for just 95 in 16.4 overs.
Captain Dasun Shanaka was the top scorer with 30, but lacked support from the rest of the batting unit. Will Jacks starred with the ball, claiming three wickets to seal a dominant win for England.
