Tom Banton delivered a dazzling knock of 52 runs off 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 game to spare. Banton’s innings was bolstered by quick‑fire contributions from captain Harry Brook, who smashed 23 runs from eight balls, and veteran wicket‑keeper Jos Buttler, who added 30 runs off 16 deliveries. Buttler’s effort was historic, as it made him the first cricketer to accumulate 15,000 runs in the Twenty‑20 format.
Together, the trio guided the hosts past Sri Lanka’s modest total of 145 for 9 with 7.5 overs remaining. This victory marked England’s 14th consecutive win over Sri Lanka and their 22nd triumph in the last 25 T20 internationals. The English side, under the strategic direction of head coach Brendon McCullum and newly appointed white‑ball mentor Kevin Pietersen, continues to build momentum and confidence. Sri Lanka got off to a brisk start.
Openers Pathum Nissanka (37 off 21) and Lahiru Udara (21 off 20) stitched together an opening 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, claiming the wickets of Udara and Kamil Mishara (who was dismissed for a duck) in consecutive deliveries, shifting the momentum dramatically. Jamie Overton followed with figures of 2 for 23, removing Nissanka after the powerplay and soon after dismissing Kamindu Mendis (12 off 8).
Dawson added further pressure by taking the wicket of veteran all‑rounder Dasun Shanaka just three balls later, leaving Sri Lanka reeling at 95 for 5 after a promising start of 56 for no loss. A resilient partnership between skipper Charith Asalanka (31 off 31) and premier bowler Wanindu Hasaranga (27 off 22) offered a brief respite, but England’s spin and pace attack struck back.
Adil Rashid (1 for 18) and the promising youngster Sonny Baker (1 for 15) each took a wicket within a six‑ball spell, and Jofra Archer wrapped up the innings with two wickets in the final over, bowing out Sri Lanka at nine down and setting England a target of 146 runs. England’s chase began aggressively. Buttler (30 off 16) and Aneurin Donald (21 off 13) combined for a rapid 50‑run opening stand in just 25 balls.
Their momentum was halted when Sri Lanka’s pacemen Dushmantha Chameera (1 for 29) and Eshan Malinga (1 for 27) removed both openers in quick succession. Harry Brook then took charge, unleashing three sixes in four deliveries to accelerate the run‑rate.
Unfortunately for Brook, a spectacular catch on the boundary by Malinga ended his remarkable run of 311 consecutive T20 international innings without dismissal for England. Undeterred, England’s middle order continued the onslaught. Banton, who had already been the top‑scorer, partnered with a brisk cameo from Jordan Cox (12 off 7) to see the chase home.
Their partnership ensured England crossed the finish line with six wickets in hand, clinching the series. Post‑match, England’s white‑ball captain Harry Brook shared his thoughts with Sky Sports: "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 ability to adapt his strokeplay, Buttler’s milestone and aggressive intent, and the supporting roles of Dawson, Rashid, and Archer all underscored a balanced side capable of handling pressure situations. The performance also reinforced the strategic impact of the coaching staff, with McCullum’s aggressive mindset and Pietersen’s emphasis on modern white‑ball tactics evident throughout the match.
Looking ahead, England will aim to maintain this high standard as they prepare for upcoming fixtures, while Sri Lanka will need to regroup and address the early wicket losses that hampered their chase. Fans can catch the third T20 clash between the two nations live on Sky Sports Cricket and Sky Sports Main Event, scheduled for 2:30 pm on Saturday, with streaming options available via NOW without a contract.
All match times are listed in UK and Ireland local time.