In a thrilling display of batting prowess, England set Sri Lanka a daunting target of 358 runs in the decisive third ODI of the series in Colombo. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, the visitors posted 357 for 3 in 50 overs, propelled by magnificent centuries from Harry Brook and Joe Root.
England’s innings got off to a shaky start, losing Ben Duckett for 7 at 19 runs and Rehan Ahmed for 24 at 40. The early collapse put pressure on the middle order, but Joe Root and Jacob Bethell steadied the ship with a crucial 126-run partnership for the third wicket. Bethell’s aggressive 65 off 72 balls, including 8 fours, laid the foundation before he departed at 166.
Enter Harry Brook, who unleashed a brutal assault alongside Root. The duo forged an explosive 191-run stand in just 18.5 overs, pushing England to their formidable total. Brook remained unbeaten on 136 from 66 balls, smashing 11 fours and a record 9 sixes. He raced to his fifty off 40 balls and converted it into his third ODI hundred off 57 deliveries – his highest score in the format.
Root anchored the innings with an unbeaten 111 off 108 balls, featuring 9 fours and a six. This marked his 20th ODI century, underscoring his class and consistency. Their partnership turned the game on its head, leaving Sri Lanka’s bowlers searching for answers.
Sri Lanka’s attack struggled throughout. Asitha Fernando leaked 77 runs in 9 overs, while Wanindu Hasaranga and Jeffrey Vandersay both conceded 76 in their 10 overs each. Zenith Liyanage was the only economical bowler, going for just 7 runs in 3 overs.
With the series locked at 1-1, this decider promises high drama as Sri Lanka now faces a steep chase under lights in Colombo. England’s batting firepower has given them a strong edge, but the hosts will draw on home advantage to fight back.