Harry Brook produced the fastest hundred of his England career, guiding the hosts to a dominant 119 run victory over Sri Lanka in the opening T20I at the Utilita Bowl. His unbeaten 114, compiled off just 42 balls, propelled England to 254 for 4, the second highest total they have posted at this venue this year.
Sri Lanka’s captain Charith Asalanka chose to bowl first after winning the toss, a decision that backfired almost immediately. Debutant Aneurin Donald smashed 12 from just 5 deliveries, setting an aggressive tone that Brook and Jos Buttler carried further with a rapid partnership of 128 runs from only 60 balls. Buttler contributed 80 off 44, continuing his rich vein of form at this ground, having also scored heavily against India earlier in the year.
Sri Lanka’s reply crumbled quickly. Sonny Baker impressed with figures of 3 for 12, dismissing openers with pace and control that suggested growing confidence at international level. Every England bowler managed to pick up a wicket, exposing a Sri Lankan batting order that offered little resistance apart from Dunith Wellalage’s defiant 33.
Wellalage, however, endured a difficult night with the ball too, conceding runs at an alarming rate as Sri Lanka lacked any real answer once their frontline spinner Maheesh Theekshana was taken apart early on.
Overall, it was a night that showcased England’s batting depth and fitness, while highlighting Sri Lanka’s struggles to adapt once their initial plans unravelled.
