January 28, 2026
England registered a commanding series victory over Sri Lanka after defeating the hosts in the 3rd ODI by 53 runs. The captain Harry Brook was happy with how the team responded under pressure, giving themselves the best chance to win an ODI series after a long time.
Brook said it was an exceptional effort from the whole squad, especially Joe Root who bats like a rock for the team under tough situations.
"It was an awesome effort from everybody involved. Rooty is just exceptional. To have him in the side just helps every day. That was an exceptional performance by the lads.” said England captain, Harry Brook.
"I was working on a few things with Rooty in the nets yesterday, and luckily it paid off today. I felt good and I'm glad that me, Rooty and Beth [Jacob Bethell] could get us to that total." added Harry Brook.
Joe Root also expressed his happiness with the series victory, saying that he loves performing for the team to the best of his abilities. He added that plenty of new players have come into the squad, so being a senior batter, his responsibility to guide them has increased lately.
"More than anything, you just want to win games and contribute to winning games. My role in this team is pretty obvious, and it's nice to try and help the younger guys come through now, I've got a bit older. As you play, your role in that aspect changes all the time. So it's just moving along with that and trying to help those other guys come through.” said Joe Root.
After winning the ODI series, England will turn their focus to the T20I series that is starting from January 30 at Pallekele. They are confident to perform strongly in this series, as it will help them prepare well for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026.