Tom Banton produced a dazzling knock of 52 runs off just 24 deliveries, steering England to a comfortable six‑wicket win against Sri Lanka in the second T20 of the series and clinching the three‑match 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 was historic, as he became the first player to reach the milestone of 15,000 runs in Twenty‑20 internationals. England chased down Sri Lanka’s modest total of 145 for 9 with 7.5 overs remaining, sealing a dominant performance.
The win marked England’s 14th consecutive victory over Sri Lanka in the T20 format and their 22nd win in the last 25 T20 internationals they have played. Under the guidance of head coach Brendon McCullum and the newly appointed white‑ball mentor Kevin Pietersen, the English side continues to grow stronger, with Harry Brook’s leadership proving a vital factor in their recent successes.
Sri Lanka’s innings began brightly. Openers Pathum Nissanka and Lahiru Udara put together a solid 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. The momentum, however, shifted dramatically when England’s left‑arm seamer Liam Dawson struck with a burst of skill, taking the wickets of Udara and Kamil Mishara in consecutive deliveries, thereby breaking the opening stand.
Dawson’s spell proved pivotal; he later dismissed Shanaka just three balls after taking the wicket of Kamindu Mendis, leaving the tourists reeling at 95 for 5 after being 56 for no loss. Jamie Overton also played a crucial role, removing Nissanka after the powerplay and later dismissing Mendis, further tightening the noose around the Sri Lankan batting line‑up. A brief resurgence came from the fifth‑wicket partnership between skipper Charith Asalanka (31 off 31) and all‑rounder Wanindu Hasaranga (27 off 22), who offered a glimmer of resistance.
Yet England’s bowlers reclaimed control swiftly: Adil Rashid claimed a wicket for just 18 runs, and youngster Sonny Baker added another for 15. In the final over of the innings, Jofra Archer delivered a decisive double‑wicket burst, leaving Sri Lanka nine down and setting England a target of 146.
England’s chase began with aggression. Buttler and opening batsman Aneurin Donald combined for a rapid 50‑run partnership in the first 25 balls, showcasing the firepower that has become a hallmark of England’s white‑ball side.
Their momentum was halted when Sri Lankan pacers Dushmantha Chameera (1 for 29) and Eshan Malinga (1 for 27) removed both openers within three deliveries, creating a brief wobble in the chase. Undeterred, Harry Brook accelerated the scoring rate, unleashing three sixes in four balls. Unfortunately, his spectacular run of 311 consecutive runs without being dismissed in T20 internationals for England came to an end when he was caught at the boundary by Malinga.
Despite Brook’s dismissal, the middle order remained unfazed. Tom Banton, who had already anchored the innings, continued to dominate, while Jordan Cox contributed a brisk cameo of 12 runs off just seven balls.
Together, they guided England safely over the line, securing a six‑wicket victory. Post‑match, England’s white‑ball captain Harry Brook spoke to Sky Sports about the 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 series win not only highlights England’s depth in both batting and bowling but also underscores the impact of their coaching staff. Brendon McCullum’s aggressive mindset and Kevin Pietersen’s strategic white‑ball insights have cultivated a side that can adapt quickly, dominate with the ball, and accelerate when required with the bat. Fans looking to relive the action can watch the third T20 of the series live on Sky Sports Cricket and Sky Sports Main Event, scheduled for 2:30 pm on Saturday.
The match will be streamed without a contract through NOW, offering flexible viewing options for UK and Ireland audiences. All times are listed in local UK and Irish time zones, and the games will be broadcast live across Sky Sports platforms, ensuring supporters can follow England’s continued quest for white‑ball supremacy.