England Beat Sri Lanka by 53 Runs in Thrilling 3rd ODI to Seal Series 2-1

England won the match by 53 runs, securing the 3-match series 2-1. Batting first, England finished with 357 runs in 3rd ODI at R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo.

The pursuit of 358 runs by Sri Lanka began explosively, with Pathum Nissanka scoring a brilliant 50 off 25 balls, including five fours and three sixes. Kamil Mishara (22) and Kusal Mendis (20) added quick runs, and the scoreboard kept ticking, but the lower order didn’t match the same intent. 

Pavan Rathnayake scored 121 off 115 balls, including 12 fours and a six. His century helped Sri Lanka surpass 200 in the 30th over, making the match exciting.

Despite Rathnayake’s feats, England’s bowlers provided crucial breakthroughs at key moments. Nissanka was dismissed by Jamie Overton, and partnerships were broken by Adil Rashid and Will Jacks, which curtailed Sri Lanka’s scoring ability. Dunith Wellalage (22) and Janith Liyanage (22) tried to stabilize the innings, but the required rate was climbing too quickly.

There were only two extras in the innings, and England’s fielding and bowling were disciplined. Sri Lanka’s innings ended at 304 in 46.4 overs, falling 53 runs short of the target.

Harry Brook’s overall contribution in the series was fabulous. His match-winning innings earned him the Player of the Match award. Joe Root was consistent throughout the series, earning him the Player of the Series honour.