Colombo witnessed a batting masterclass as England amassed 357 for 3 against Sri Lanka in the series-deciding third ODI. Harry Brook’s blistering 136 not out and Joe Root’s composed 111 not out formed the backbone of a commanding total after England chose to bat first upon winning the toss.
The openers faltered early with Duckett out for 7 and Ahmed for 24, leaving England at 40 for 2. But Root, the seasoned campaigner, linked up with young Bethell for a resilient 126-run stand. Bethell’s 65, laced with 8 boundaries, came off 72 balls and rescued the innings until the score reached 166.
Brook then took center stage, partnering Root in a game-changing 191-run alliance that came at over 10 runs per over. The 24-year-old prodigy hammered 9 sixes and 11 fours in his 66-ball knock, reaching his fifty in 40 balls and century in 57 – his third in ODIs and personal best.
Root’s knock was a lesson in temperament, his 20th ODI ton coming off 108 balls with elegant strokeplay. Together, they dismantled Sri Lanka’s bowling, which proved toothless. Fernando’s 9 overs cost 77, Hasaranga and Vandersay each went for 76 in 10 overs, with only Liyanage frugal at 7/3.
Tied 1-1 entering this finale, England have seized control with their highest ODI total of the series. Sri Lanka’s chase looms large, testing their resolve in front of a passionate home crowd. Can the islanders pull off a miracle, or will England’s batsmen prove too hot to handle?
