England sealed the three-match T20I sequence towards Sri Lanka with a six-wicket victory by way of the DLS technique within the second encounter on the Pallekele Worldwide Cricket Stadium on Sunday, February 1. In a match closely influenced by rain interruptions, Tom Banton’s composed but attacking knock proved decisive as England efficiently chased a revised goal of 168 in 17 overs.
The win handed England an unassailable 2-0 lead within the sequence, showcasing their adaptability and depth in strain conditions.
Sri Lanka publish aggressive complete regardless of late stutters
Batting first after England opted to bowl, Sri Lanka put up an imposing 189 for five of their allotted 20 overs. The hosts obtained off to a brisk begin, led by Pathum Nissanka, who smashed 34 off simply 22 balls earlier than being cleaned up by Jofra Archer.
Nissanka was nicely supported by Kamil Mishara, whose fluent 36 off 30 deliveries helped Sri Lanka dominate the powerplay. The momentum continued with Kusal Mendis producing a speedy 32 from 17 balls, maintaining the run charge nicely above 9 an over.
Nonetheless, England struck again within the center overs. Liam Dawson eliminated Mendis, whereas Adil Rashid trapped skipper Dasun Shanaka lbw for a subdued 1, halting Sri Lanka’s cost.
Regardless of the setbacks, Sri Lanka maintained strain by means of Pavan Rathnayake, who performed an attention grabbing cameo of 40 off 22 balls. Archer returned to dismiss Rathnayake at an important juncture, ending with spectacular figures of two for 42.
On the demise, Charith Asalanka anchored the innings with an unbeaten 28, guaranteeing Sri Lanka crossed the 185-run mark. England’s bowlers, although costly at instances, managed to limit additional injury and prevented a late onslaught.
Rain quickly adopted, resulting in a delay and a revised chase for England.
Rain reduces chase as England get revised goal
After almost two hours of interruption, the match was lowered to 17 overs per facet, with England set a DLS-adjusted goal of 168. The state of affairs demanded a run charge of just below ten an over, putting quick strain on the guests.
England’s reply started shakily as Philip Salt fell for 1, adopted quickly by Jacob Bethell, leaving England two down contained in the powerplay. Jos Buttler counterattacked with a fluent 39 off 29 balls, however his dismissal as soon as once more opened the door for Sri Lanka.
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Tom Banton takes cost beneath strain
With wickets falling at common intervals, Tom Banton emerged as England’s stabilising power. Promoted to the center order, Banton performed with maturity past his years, mixing clear hitting with good rotation of strike.
Banton’s unbeaten 54 off 33 balls included three fours and three sixes, and he timed his acceleration completely throughout the ultimate overs. His calm presence allowed England to maintain tempo with the DLS par rating all through the chase.
Captain Harry Brook supplied a blistering cameo, scoring 36 off simply 12 balls earlier than falling to Matheesha Pathirana, however by then England have been firmly in management.
All-rounder Sam Curran complemented Banton brilliantly, remaining unbeaten on 20 off 14 balls. The duo ensured England crossed the road with two balls to spare, finishing on 173 for 4 in 16.4 overs.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers struggled to include England as soon as Banton settled in. Pathirana was costly regardless of selecting two wickets, whereas Wanindu Hasaranga couldn’t apply his regular management.
For his batting brilliance, Tom Banton was adjudged Performed of the Match.
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