18 September,2026 10:48 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Harry Brook was the star in the series against Sri Lanka (Pic: AFP)
England wrapped up the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka with a game to go after securing a dominant six-wicket victory at Sophia Gardens on Thursday.
Choosing to field first, the hosts restricted Sri Lanka to 145/9 in their 20 overs before chasing down the target in 12.1 overs. The result extended England's winning streak over the Sri Lankan side to 14 consecutive T20Is.
Sri Lanka began well after being sent in to bat, reaching 56/0 during the powerplay. Pathum Nissanka led the scoring with 37 from 21 deliveries, hitting four boundaries and a six, while Lahiru Udara chipped in with a 20-ball 21 featuring five boundaries. Skipper Charith Asalanka added 31 off 31 balls, and Wanindu Hasaranga provided late fireworks with a 22-ball 27. Kamindu Mendis added 12 off eight balls to close Sri Lanka's innings.
England's bowling attack was headlined by Liam Dawson, who registered figures of 3/32 in four overs. Jamie Overton collected 2/23, while Jofra Archer marked his 50th T20I appearance by taking 2/34. Young fast bowler Sonny Baker also starred, finishing with 1/15 from four overs, including a wicket maiden.
In response, England's top order started in fine form. Openers Jos Buttler and Aneurin Donald set the foundation early; Buttler made 30 off 16 balls with four boundaries and a six, while Donald smashed 21 off 13 balls. Captain Harry Brook maintained the tempo with a blazing 23 off just eight deliveries, including three sixes and a four.
Tom Banton then guided the chase to completion, remaining unbeaten on 52 from 24 balls. Striking two fours and four sixes, Banton brought up his career-fastest T20I half-century off 24 deliveries. Jordan Cox chipped in with a seven-ball 12 before Will Jacks (3') sealed the victory with 47 balls remaining.
During his short stay at the crease, Buttler achieved a landmark moment by becoming the first player in history to score 15,000 runs in T20 cricket. Dawson won the Player of the Match award for his three-wicket spell. The series concludes at Old Trafford in Manchester on Saturday, with England holding an unassailable 2-0 advantage.
