Sri Lanka pulled off a memorable 16 run triumph over England at Headingley, matching their only previous away ODI win against the hosts, which also came at this venue seven years back. The result keeps the series alive heading into Sunday’s finale at The Oval.
Batting first on a flat pitch built for scoring, Sri Lanka posted 321 for 6, their biggest total against England since 2018. Captain Kusal Mendis anchored the innings with a fine century, his seventh in the format, receiving strong support from Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, Pavan Rathnayake and Janith Liyanage. Kusal and Kamindu combined for a match defining 137 run partnership that propelled the innings forward after a costly missed catch let Kusal off early.
Chasing 322, England looked in command through Ben Duckett and Tom Banton’s blistering 143 run opening stand. But spinner Dunith Wellalage turned the contest, removing both openers before also accounting for Harry Brook. Jos Buttler then took charge, guiding partnerships with Joe Root and Will Jacks, until a hamstring problem forced him off the field near the halfway mark of his side’s chase.
His absence proved costly, as Sri Lanka’s bowlers, led by Wellalage’s three wicket haul and a superb closing spell from Asitha Fernando, tightened their grip, conceding just a single boundary across sixty deliveries. Though Buttler returned briefly and Jacks fought on, England fell short, managing only 52 runs for the loss of five wickets after Buttler’s setback.
Eshan Malinga and Dilshan Madushanka held their nerve in the closing overs to complete a well earned victory, giving Sri Lanka fresh belief ahead of the series decider.
