Tom Banton delivered a dazzling knock of 52 runs off just 24 deliveries, steering England to a comfortable six‑wicket win over Sri Lanka in the second Twenty20 International and sealing the three‑match series with a match still to play. Banton’s innings was supported by aggressive cameo performances from captain Harry Brook, who smashed 23 runs from only eight balls, and veteran wicket‑keeper Jos Buttler, who added 30 runs off 16 deliveries. Buttler’s effort also saw him become the first cricketer to surpass the 15,000‑run milestone in T20 cricket, a historic achievement that underscored England’s dominance. The English side chased down Sri Lanka’s modest total of 145 for 9 with 7.5 overs to spare, marking England’s 14th consecutive victory over the island nation and their 22nd win in the last 25 T20 internationals they have played.
The triumph further highlighted the progress made under head coach Brendon McCullum and the newly appointed white‑ball mentor Kevin Pietersen, who have both been credited with sharpening England’s tactical edge and fostering a winning culture. Sri Lanka got off to a brisk start. Openers Pathum Nissanka and Lahiru Udara put together a 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 shifted dramatically when England’s seamer Liam Dawson struck twice in successive deliveries, dismissing Udara and then Kamil Mishara for a duck, injecting fresh energy into England’s bowling attack.
Jamie Overton followed suit, removing Nissanka after the powerplay and then claiming the wicket of Kamindu Mendis, who had been playing a quick 12‑run cameo. Dawson added to Sri Lanka’s woes by taking the wicket of captain Dasun Shanaka just three balls later, leaving the visitors reeling at 95 for 5 after having been 56 for no loss.
A brief resurgence came from the Sri Lankan middle order. Charith Asalanka held his own with a disciplined 31 off 31 balls, while all‑rounder Wanindu Hasaranga added 27 off 22. Their partnership offered England a momentary respite, but it was short‑lived. England’s spin specialist Adil Rashid claimed one wicket for just 18 runs, and young fast bowler Sonny Baker followed with a wicket for 15 runs, both dismissals arriving within a six‑ball spell.
The final over of Sri Lanka’s innings saw Jofra Archer claim two crucial wickets, leaving the hosts nine down and setting England a target of 146. England’s chase began in typical fashion, with Buttler and opening partner Aneurin Donald taking advantage of the loose delivery. Buttler’s 30 off 16 and Donald’s rapid 21 off 13 gave England a solid 50‑run platform in just 25 balls. However, Sri Lankan bowlers Dushmantha Chameera and Eshan Malinga responded quickly, removing both openers within three deliveries.
The loss could have unsettled the English side, but Harry Brook accelerated the scoring rate, blasting three sixes in four balls. 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 continued to press forward.
Banton, now the top scorer, paired with a brisk cameo from Jordan Cox, who contributed 12 runs off just seven balls. Their partnership ensured England crossed the finish line with ease, clinching the series victory.
After the match, England’s white‑ball captain Harry Brook spoke to Sky Sports, describing the performance as “special” and “very clinical.” He praised the early wickets taken by the bowlers, especially highlighting Liam Dawson’s game‑reading abilities, calling him “an awesome bowler and a great bloke.” Brook also lauded Banton’s ability to hit the ball to different parts of the ground and celebrated Buttler’s historic 15,000 T20 runs, noting that such longevity and consistency over 15 years is a rare commodity that any team would value. The win not only secured the series but also reinforced England’s status as a powerhouse in the shortest format of the game. Their blend of explosive batting, disciplined bowling, and strategic acumen under the guidance of McCullum and Pietersen suggests they will continue to be a formidable opponent in upcoming international fixtures. The next encounter, England’s third T20 against Sri Lanka, is scheduled to be broadcast live on Sky Sports Cricket and Sky Sports Main Event from 2:30 pm on Saturday, with streaming options available via NOW without a contract.
All times are listed in UK and Ireland time zones.