England produced a dominant all-round performance to beat Sri Lanka 53 runs in the third ODI at the R. Premadasa Stadium seals the series in emphatic fashion. A breathtaking unbeaten century Harry Brooke and Joe Root’s masterful knock took England to 357 for 3, which remained beyond Sri Lanka’s reach despite a strong chase.
Brook was named Man of the Match for an extraordinary display of strength that swung the contest decisively in England’s favour.
England posted a massive 357 behind the Brook-Root partnership
After winning the toss and electing to bat, England got off to a cautious start, losing Ben Duckett and Rehan Ahmed cheaply. The innings was then masterfully rebuilt by Root and Jacob Bethell, who added a valuable 126-run stand to stabilize England.
The turning point came when Brook joined Root at the crease. The duo put up an amazing 191-run partnership for the fourth wicket, completely destroying the Sri Lankan bowling attack. Root anchored the innings with 111 off 108 balls, displaying his trademark finesse and control.
Brook, however, caught the eye with his wild unbeaten run of 136 off just 66 deliveries, hitting 11 fours and nine sixes with an astonishing strike rate of over 200. His attack during the last 15 overs England 357 for 3One of their most impressive finishes in Asia.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers found little respite on a good batting surface. Wanindu Hasaranga and Jeffrey Vandersay parted after conceding 76 runs in their quota of 10 overs. Only Dunith Wellalage managed to keep things relatively tight, but the lack of wickets allowed England’s batsmen to score free runs.
Pawan Rathnayake’s century goes to waste as England restrict Sri Lanka for 304
Chasing 358, Sri Lanka got off to a brisk start with Pathum Nissanka batting for 50. Contributions from Kusal Mendis and Kamil Mishara kept Sri Lanka in touch during the early overs, but regular wickets halted their momentum.
Middle-order partnerships failed to gain traction as captain Charith Asalanka struggled to change his start. Despite a brilliant century from Pavan Rathnayake (121 off 115), the required rate continued to rise.
Sri Lanka were eventually bowled out for 304 in 46.4 overs, trailing despite a fighting display.
Also READ: SL vs ENG – Fans roar as Joe Root’s 20th ODI century lights up the R. Premadasa Stadium.
England’s bowlers shared the workload effectively. Jamie Overton struck early, while Adil Rashid provided the breakthrough in the medium deliveries.
Will Jacks and Liam Dawson also provided support, picking up timely wickets to ensure Sri Lanka never fully threatened England’s lead.
England won the ODI series by 53 runs https://t.co/OTrZyVPwoJ#cricket #SLvENG #3rdODI pic.twitter.com/iozdb2Nqc2
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 27, 2026
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