Defending a modest total of 146/9, England bowled out the hosts for just 95 in 16.4 overs, with Will Jacks and Jofra Archer leading a clinical bowling performance.
After winning the toss, Sri Lanka opted to field and initially justified the decision as their spinners kept England in check. Dunith Wellalage returned impressive figures of 3/26, while the English top order struggled on a turning surface. Phil Salt top-scored with a fighting 62, but captain Harry Brook and Jos Buttler were dismissed cheaply, leaving England 68/4 at the halfway stage. Late contributions from Will Jacks (21) and Jamie Overton (10 not out) helped push the total to 146, which appeared below par.
However, England’s bowlers turned the game decisively in the second innings. Jofra Archer struck in the opening over to remove Pathum Nissanka, setting the tone for the collapse. Will Jacks then ripped through the top order, claiming 3/22, including two wickets in successive deliveries, as Sri Lanka slumped to 34/5 inside the powerplay.
The middle order failed to recover under sustained pressure. Former captain Dasun Shanaka offered brief resistance with a gritty 30, but lacked support as wickets fell regularly. Adil Rashid and Liam Dawson combined to wrap up the innings, with Rashid taking the final wicket to seal the emphatic win.
The victory lifts England to the top of Group 2 in the Super 8 stage with a healthy net run-rate boost, while Sri Lanka face mounting pressure ahead of their remaining fixtures against Pakistan and New Zealand.
