Tom Banton delivered a dazzling knock of 52 runs from just 24 deliveries, steering England to a convincing six‑wicket win against Sri Lanka in the second T20 of the series and sealing the three‑match contest with a match to spare. Banton’s innings was bolstered by quickfire contributions from captain Harry Brook, who smashed 23 runs off eight balls, and veteran wicket‑keeper Jos Buttler, who added 30 runs from 16 deliveries. Buttler’s effort was historic, as it saw him become the first cricketer to surpass the 15,000‑run milestone in Twenty20 internationals. 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 side and their 22nd triumph in the last 25 T20 internationals they have played.
The victory underlines the growing strength of a England side that has thrived under head coach Brendon McCullum and the newly appointed white‑ball mentor Kevin Pietersen, with captain Harry Brook leading from the front. Sri Lanka’s innings began brightly. Openers Pathum Nissanka and Lahiru Udara put together an aggressive 55‑run partnership without losing a wicket in the first five overs, with Nissanka scoring a brisk 37 off 21 balls and Udara contributing 21 off 20. The momentum shifted dramatically when England’s left‑arm seamer Liam Dawson struck in quick succession, dismissing Udara and then Kamil Mishara on consecutive deliveries, turning the tide in England’s favour.
Jamie Overton followed with a crucial breakthrough, removing Nissanka after the powerplay, and soon after claimed the wicket of Kamindu Mendis, who had been making a promising 12 off 8. Dawson added further pressure by dismissing veteran all‑rounder Dasun Shanaka just three balls later, leaving Sri Lanka reeling at 95 for 5 after having been 56 for 0. A resilient partnership for the fifth wicket emerged between Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka, who made a composed 31 off 31 balls, and fast‑bowling all‑rounder Wanindu Hasaranga, who contributed 27 off 22. Their stand offered a brief respite, but England’s spin and pace attack proved relentless.
Adil Rashid claimed a wicket for just 18 runs, and young paceman Sonny Baker added another, both dismissing the pair within six deliveries. The innings wrapped up dramatically when Jofra Archer claimed two wickets in the final over, leaving Sri Lanka nine down and setting England a target of 146 runs. England’s chase got off to a rapid start.
Buttler and opening batsman Aneurin Donald combined for a 50‑run partnership in the first 25 balls, with Buttler’s 30 off 16 and Donald’s 21 off 13. However, Sri Lanka’s bowlers Dushmantha Chameera and Eshan Malinga struck back, each taking a wicket and removing both openers within three balls of each other. With the early wickets falling, Harry Brook accelerated the scoring rate, unleashing three sixes in four balls.
His on‑fire display was cut short when Malinga caught him on the boundary, ending Brook’s remarkable run of 311 consecutive runs without dismissal in T20 internationals for England. Undeterred, England’s middle order continued the assault. Banton, now the top scorer, partnered with Jordan Cox, who added a brisk 12 off 7 balls, to see England over the line.
Their combined effort ensured the required 146 runs were chased comfortably, cementing England’s series win. Captain Harry Brook spoke to Sky Sports after the match, 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.
Banton’s aggressive stroke‑play, Buttler’s record‑breaking achievement, and the disciplined bowling unit featuring Dawson, Overton, Rashid, Baker, and Archer demonstrated a well‑balanced side capable of adapting to different match situations. The contributions from emerging talents like Jordan Cox and the experienced leadership of Brook and Buttler suggest England will remain a dominant force in the white‑ball format.
Fans can watch England’s third T20 against Sri Lanka live on Sky Sports Cricket and Sky Sports Main Event, scheduled for 2:30 pm on Saturday. The broadcast will be available across the UK and Ireland, with streaming options through NOW for those without a traditional contract. The series continues to generate excitement, showcasing high‑octane cricket and memorable milestones for players on both sides.