In a dominant display at Pallekele, England began their T20 World Cup Super 8 journey with a resounding 51-run victory over Sri Lanka. Batting first after losing the toss, England posted 146-9, powered by Phil Salt’s explosive 62. Sri Lanka, chasing 147, folded for 95 in 16.4 overs, handing England a statement win.
The hosts’ innings was a procession of collapses. Dasun Shanaka’s 30 was the highest score, with sparse contributions from others like Mendis (13) and Wellalage (10). England’s pace and spin duo shone brightly: Jacks’ 3-22 set the tone, Archer and Dawson grabbed two each, and Rashid’s 2-13 sealed the deal.
England’s top order wobbled early – Buttler (7), Bethell (3), Banton (run out 6), Brook (14), and Curran (11) all departed cheaply. Jacks’ quick 21 offered respite, but Salt’s masterful innings, laced with six boundaries and two maximums off 40 deliveries, rescued the innings and built momentum.
Sri Lanka fought back with the ball, Wellalage claiming 3-26, Madushanka and Theekshana two apiece. Yet, they couldn’t stem the flow in their chase. This result positions England atop their Super 8 pool, highlighting their bowling prowess on a surface favoring seamers.
Salt emerged as the match-winner, his aggression contrasting Sri Lanka’s timidity. England’s recovery from a precarious position speaks to their championship mentality. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, must regroup quickly. With group stages intensifying, England’s clinical approach positions them as frontrunners.