Tom Banton delivered a brilliant knock of 52 runs off just 24 deliveries, guiding England to a comfortable six‑wicket win against Sri Lanka in the second T20 of the three‑match series, sealing the contest with one game to spare. Banton’s innings was bolstered by quick contributions from captain Harry Brook, who smashed 23 runs from only eight balls, and the ever‑reliable Jos Buttler, who added 30 runs off 16 deliveries. Buttler’s effort also saw him become the first cricketer to amass 15,000 runs in the T20 format, a historic milestone that underscored his longevity and class. England chased down Sri Lanka’s modest total of 145 for 9 with 7.5 overs remaining, marking their 14th consecutive win over the island nation and their 22nd triumph in the last 25 T20 internationals they have played.
The victory further cemented the impressive run that England have enjoyed under the guidance of head coach Brendon McCullum and the newly appointed white‑ball mentor Kevin Pietersen, both of whom have helped the side evolve into a formidable unit. Sri Lanka’s innings began brightly. Openers Pathum Nissanka and Lahiru Udara put together a quickfire 55‑run partnership without losing a wicket in the first five overs, with Nissanka scoring 37 off 21 balls and Udara contributing 21 off 20. However, England’s left‑arm spinner Liam Dawson turned the tide dramatically.
Dawson claimed the wickets of Udara and Kamil Mishara in consecutive deliveries, delivering a crucial breakthrough that halted the momentum of the Sri Lankan top order. Fast‑bowler Jamie Overton then added to the pressure, picking up two wickets for just 23 runs. He dismissed Nissanka after the powerplay and soon after removed Kamindu Mendis, who had been playing a brisk 12 off 8. Dawson continued his spell, taking the wicket of veteran all‑rounder Dasun Shanaka three balls later, leaving Sri Lanka reeling at 95 for 5 after a dramatic collapse from a solid 56 for no loss.
A brief resurgence came from Sri Lanka’s middle order. Captain Charith Asalanka, who scored a composed 31 off 31 balls, and leg‑spinner Wanindu Hasaranga, who added 27 off 22, attempted to steady the ship.
Their partnership, however, was short‑lived. England’s spin maestro Adil Rashid (1 for 18) and the promising youngster Sonny Baker (1 for 15) each claimed a wicket within a six‑ball window, and the experienced Jofra Archer sealed the innings by taking two more wickets in the final over.
Sri Lanka were eventually bowled out for 145, setting England a target of 146 runs. England’s chase began with a flourish.
Opening pair Jos Buttler and Aneurin Donald combined for a rapid 50 runs in the first 25 balls, with Buttler’s 30 off 16 and Donald’s 21 off 13 laying a solid foundation. Their partnership was soon broken when Sri Lankan pacemen Dushmantha Chameera (1 for 29) and Eshan Malinga (1 for 27) dismissed the openers within three deliveries of each other. Harry Brook then took charge of the innings, accelerating the run‑rate with a series of boundaries.
He smashed three sixes in four balls, a display of power that thrilled the crowd. Unfortunately for Brook, his momentum was halted when Malinga caught him on the boundary, ending an impressive run of 311 runs without being dismissed in T20 internationals for England. Undeterred, England’s middle order stepped up.
Tom Banton, already the top scorer, continued to dominate, while Jordan Cox provided a quick cameo of 12 runs off just seven balls. Their partnership ensured England crossed the finish line with ease, securing a six‑wicket victory and the series win. After the match, England’s white‑ball captain Harry Brook spoke to Sky Sports, praising the team’s performance: "Tonight was a special performance, very clinical. Sri Lanka got off to a flier but the way we fought back with the ball was outstanding.
The way Dawson reads the game was outstanding, too. He is an awesome bowler and a great bloke. He uses all of his nous. Everyone bowled phenomenally and the way Banton hits different parts of the ground with the bat was great to see.
[Buttler's 15,000 T20 runs] is ridiculous. Long may it continue. He has been phenomenal for 15 years and someone you want by your side and in the changing room." The win not only secured the series but also highlighted England’s depth in both batting and bowling. Players like Banton and Buttler demonstrated the ability to change games in a matter of overs, while the bowlers—Dawson, Overton, Rashid, Baker, and Archer—showed a variety of skills that kept Sri Lanka under constant pressure.
The combination of experienced veterans and emerging talent bodes well for England’s future in the shortest format, especially as they look ahead to upcoming tournaments and bilateral series. Fans can relive the highlights of England’s third T20 against Sri Lanka on Sky Sports Cricket and Sky Sports Main Event, which aired live at 2:30 pm on Saturday. The match was also available for streaming via NOW, offering viewers a contract‑free option to follow the action.
All times listed are for the UK and Ireland, and the games were broadcast live across the Sky Sports network, ensuring that cricket enthusiasts could enjoy the excitement in real time. Overall, England’s performance in this series reinforced their status as a dominant force in T20 cricket. With a blend of aggressive batting, incisive spin, and disciplined pace bowling, the side demonstrated why they have become one of the most consistent teams in recent years.
The series win adds another chapter to their impressive record and sets a high benchmark for future opponents.