England delivered yet another masterclass against Sri Lanka, securing a commanding 51-run victory in the T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. This triumph marks their staggering 12th consecutive T20I win over the islanders, extending a dominant streak that began after Sri Lanka’s last victory on May 20, 2014.
Opting to bat first after losing the toss, England posted a competitive 146 for 9 in their 20 overs. Philip Salt anchored the innings with a brisk 62 off 40 balls, smashing 6 fours and 2 sixes while partnering with six different batsmen to keep the scoreboard ticking. Will Jacks chipped in with 21 runs, providing crucial support in the middle order.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers fought back gamely, led by Dunith Wellalage’s haul of 3 wickets. Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, and Dushmantha Chameera each claimed two scalps, restricting England from accelerating further.
Chasing 147, Sri Lanka unravelled spectacularly, collapsing to 95 all out in just 16.4 overs. Captain Dasun Shanaka top-scored with 30 off 24 balls, including 3 boundaries, but lacked support. Kaminindu Mendis managed 13 as the batting lineup faltered under pressure.
England’s spinners shone brightly, capturing 7 wickets – the most by their bowlers in a T20 World Cup match. Will Jacks led the charge with 3 wickets, while Jofra Archer, Liam Dawson, and Adil Rashid picked up 2 each. Jamie Overton sealed the deal with one scalp.
This result underscores England’s unassailable record against Sri Lanka in T20Is, including two emphatic 8-wicket wins in the streak. As the Super 8 stage heats up, England’s spin prowess and batting resilience position them as frontrunners.