Tom Banton delivered a dazzling knock of 52 runs off just 24 deliveries, steering England to a commanding six‑wicket win against Sri Lanka in the second T20 of the series and sealing the three‑match contest with a game to spare. Banton’s innings was bolstered by quick‑fire contributions from captain Harry Brook, who added 23 runs from eight balls, and veteran wicket‑keeper Jos Buttler, who smashed 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. The English side chased down Sri Lanka’s modest total of 145 for 9 with 7.5 overs remaining, cruising to victory.
This win marked England’s 14th consecutive triumph over Sri Lanka in the shortest format and their 22nd success in the last 25 T20 internationals. Under the guidance of head coach Brendon McCullum and the newly appointed white‑ball mentor Kevin Pietersen, the team continues to grow stronger, displaying depth in both batting and bowling.
Sri Lanka got off to a brisk start. Openers Pathum Nissanka (37 off 21) and Lahiru Udara (21 off 20) put together a partnership of 55 runs without losing a wicket in the first five overs, suggesting a competitive chase. However, England’s Liam Dawson turned the tide dramatically.
The right‑arm medium‑pacer claimed the wickets of Udara and Kamil Mishara (who was out without scoring) on consecutive balls, shifting momentum away from the hosts. Jamie Overton then added to the pressure, taking 2 for 23 and dismissing Nissanka after the powerplay. Overton struck again shortly thereafter, removing Kamindu Mendis (12 off 8) and leaving Sri Lanka reeling at 95 for 5 after being 56 for no loss just a few overs earlier.
A brief resurgence came from the fifth‑wicket partnership of skipper Charith Asalanka (31 off 31) and all‑rounder Wanindu Hasaranga (27 off 22), who steadied the innings and offered a glimmer of hope. Yet England’s bowlers were relentless. Adil Rashid (1 for 18) and the promising youngster Sonny Baker (1 for 15) each claimed a wicket within a six‑ball spell, and Jofra Archer finished the innings with a two‑wicket over, reducing Sri Lanka to nine down and setting England a target of 146.
England’s reply began in typical fashion, with Buttler (30 off 16) and opening batsman Aneurin Donald (21 off 13) putting on a rapid 50 runs in the first 25 balls. Their partnership was short‑lived, however, as Sri Lanka’s pacemen Dushmantha Chameera (1 for 29) and Eshan Malinga (1 for 27) broke through, removing both openers within three deliveries. Harry Brook then took charge, accelerating the scoring rate by lofting three sixes in four balls.
Unfortunately for Brook, his momentum was halted when Malinga caught him at the boundary, ending a remarkable run of 311 consecutive runs without dismissal in T20 internationals for England. Undeterred, England’s middle order regrouped.
Banton, now the top scorer, partnered with a brisk cameo from Jordan Cox (12 off 7) to see the chase home. Their partnership ensured the required runs were attained comfortably, confirming England’s series win. Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, England’s white‑ball captain Harry Brook praised 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 victory not only secured the series but also highlighted England’s depth in talent and strategic acumen. The combination of experienced campaigners like Buttler and emerging stars such as Banton and Cox demonstrates a balanced squad capable of adapting to different match situations.
Moreover, the coaching staff’s emphasis on aggressive yet disciplined play was evident throughout both innings, with bowlers executing tight lines and batters capitalising on powerplay opportunities. 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 broadcast is available across the UK and Ireland, with streaming options through NOW for those without a traditional contract. This series continues to cement England’s reputation as a dominant force in T20 cricket, while Sri Lanka will look to regroup and address the batting collapses that cost them the series.