England wrapped up the Twenty20 international series against Sri Lanka with a commanding six-wicket victory in Cardiff, with one match still to play. Liam Dawson’s disciplined bowling helped turn the contest in England’s favour after Sri Lanka had made a strong start, while Tom Banton’s unbeaten 52 completed a rapid run chase.
Chasing 146 for victory, England reached 146 for four in only 12.1 overs, leaving 47 deliveries unused. The result reflected a striking contrast between the two innings: Sri Lanka lost momentum after a promising opening, while England maintained an aggressive approach throughout their pursuit.
Sri Lanka, having been put in to bat after losing the toss, began confidently. Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis added 55 runs during the first five overs, giving the visitors a solid platform. Their scoring rate suggested Sri Lanka could build a sizeable total if the opening partnership continued.
Dawson changed the complexion of the innings during the final over of the powerplay. The spinner claimed two wickets in quick succession, disrupting Sri Lanka’s progress and putting their middle order under pressure. From that point onwards, wickets became increasingly difficult for the visitors to avoid.
Nissanka top-scored with 37 from 21 balls, while Charith Asalanka made 31 and Wanindu Hasaranga contributed 27. Those were the only substantial scores in the Sri Lankan innings. Once the key batters departed, the visitors struggled to establish partnerships and their scoring rate fell sharply.
Sri Lanka lost nine wickets for 90 runs after their strong opening phase and finished on 145 for nine from their 20 overs. The final four overs produced only 12 runs, leaving England with a target that was well within reach on a surface where the hosts were able to score freely.
Dawson finished with three wickets for 32 runs, earning the Player of the Match award for his influential spell. Jamie Overton also played a significant role with the ball, taking two wickets as England restricted Sri Lanka to a modest total.
England’s chase began at pace. Jos Buttler and Aneurin Donald attacked from the opening deliveries and brought up 51 runs in only four and a half overs. The quick start meant England were able to keep the required rate comfortably under control.
Buttler scored 30 before being dismissed, while Donald contributed 21. England captain Harry Brook then produced a short but explosive cameo, hitting three sixes in an eight-ball stay to score 23.
Banton took over from there. He struck four sixes in an unbeaten 52 from just 24 deliveries, finishing the chase in emphatic fashion. England reached the target after 12.1 overs, completing a six-wicket win with 47 balls remaining.
The victory also adds to England’s strong recent record in T20 internationals under head coach Brendon McCullum. They have now won 22 of their last 25 T20Is during his tenure. England’s international T20I win rate currently stands at 88 per cent, according to the figures provided.
With the series already decided, the final match will be played at Old Trafford next Saturday. Sri Lanka will have the chance to respond with a victory in the concluding fixture, while England will aim to finish the series on another positive note.
