Eng vs SL 2nd ODI: Joe Root Anchors England to Five-Wicket Victory

COLOMBO: England ended an 11-match away ODI losing streak with a five-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the second ODI at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium on Saturday, leveling the three-match series at 1-1. The decider is set for Tuesday at the same venue.

Root Anchors the Chase

Chasing 220, England’s innings began cautiously. Early opener Rehan Ahmed fell for 13, but Joe Root’s composed presence at the crease steadied the innings. Partnering with Ben Duckett, Root built a 68-run platform before Duckett was dismissed attempting an aggressive cut off Jeffrey Vandersay for 39. Root, undeterred, guided England through a challenging spin track with sharp footwork and timely sweep shots, showing why he remains one of the world’s most reliable chasers.

Root’s 81-run partnership with captain Harry Brook, who compiled a patient 42 from 75 balls, effectively broke the back of the chase. Despite both set batters falling in quick succession, Root to an Asitha Fernando yorker and Brook trapped in front by Vandersay, the target was within reach. Jos Buttler finished the job with a blistering 33 not out from 21 balls, including a towering six, sealing victory with 22 balls to spare. 

Sri Lanka Struggle Against Spin

Sri Lanka, sent in by Brook, struggled to convert starts into meaningful totals. England’s record-breaking spin deployment, six bowlers delivering a combined 40.3 overs, kept the hosts on the back foot. Charith Asalanka top-scored with 45, but crucial wickets at key moments, including the run-out of Kusal Mendis (26), stifled any momentum. The hosts were bowled out for 219 in the final over, underscoring England’s dominance in the spin department.

Root’s all-round effort, 2-13 from 2.3 overs, followed by a match-defining 75, earned him the Player of the Match award. England now heads into the series decider with renewed confidence, while Sri Lanka will be keen to bounce back and regain the upper hand on a pitch that promises more spin-assisted drama.