ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Super 8 action continued on Sunday as Sri Lanka national cricket team faced England cricket team in Kandy.
England extended their winning run in Sri Lanka with a 51 run victory in a low scoring contest. On their recent white ball tour of the country, England had secured a 3-0 T20I series sweep.
The result was timely. In the group stage, England had suffered defeat to West Indies cricket team and were pushed close by Nepal and Italy.
After choosing to field, Sri Lanka made full use of familiar conditions to restrict England to 146 for nine. The chase unravelled early. The hosts slumped to 5-34 inside the powerplay and, on a slow surface, offered little resistance as they were bowled out for 95 in 16.4 overs.
England’s decision to introduce Will Jacks early proved decisive. The off spinner returned figures of three for 22 from four overs and also contributed 21 runs, earning the player of the match award for his all round display.
Jofra Archer struck first to remove the in form Pathum Nissanka and finished with 2-20 in three overs. Adil Rashid and Liam Dawson also claimed two wickets each.
Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka top scored with 30 and was the only batter to make a significant contribution.
Earlier, England’s innings had faltered in the powerplay. Jos Buttler was trapped lbw by Dunith Wellalage attempting a switch hit, while Jacob Bethell fell first ball to Maheesh Theekshana after a wild swing. England managed only 2-37 in the powerplay.
Tom Banton was then run out by a direct hit from Shanaka, increasing the pressure.
Sri Lanka rotated their spin options effectively. Wellalage was the standout with 3-26, while Theekshana and Dilshan Madushanka took two wickets each.
Phil Salt provided resistance with a half century from 36 balls. He eventually fell for 62, striking six fours and two sixes after appearing to struggle physically. Jacks’ brisk 21 came from 14 balls before he was dismissed.