England Three-match T20I series locked in Sri Lanka A six-wicket victory was achieved through the DLS method in the second match played at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, February 1. In a match badly marred by heavy rain, Tom Banton’s clinical and attacking knock played a decisive role as England chased down a revised target of 168 runs in 17 overs.

The win gave England an undisputed 2-0 lead in the series, demonstrating their adaptability and depth in pressure situations.

Despite late stuttering, Sri Lanka achieves competitive overall result

Sri Lanka, who batted first after England opted to bowl, posted a stunning score of 189 for 5 in 20 overs. The home side got off to a good start under Pathum Nissanka, who scored 34 off just 22 balls before being wiped out by Jofra Archer.

Nissanka was well supported by Kamil Mishara, whose flowing 36 off 30 deliveries helped Sri Lanka dominate the powerplay. Kusal Mendis’ momentum continued as he smashed a quick 32 off 17 balls to take the run rate well above nine balls a game.

However, England fought back in midfield. Liam Dawson removed Mendis and Adil Rashid trapped captain Dasun Shanaka LBW for a crushing 1 to halt Sri Lanka’s charge.

Despite the setback, Sri Lanka kept the pressure on through Pavan Rathnayake, who produced a blistering 40 off 22 balls. Archer came back at a crucial moment to defeat Ratnayake and ended the game with impressive figures of 2 for 42.

After the match, Charith Asalanka anchored the match with an unbeaten 28 runs to ensure Sri Lanka crossed the 185-run mark. England’s bowlers, although costly at times, managed to limit further damage and stem the late onslaught.

Rain soon fell, causing England’s chase to be delayed and modified.

Rain reduces chase as England revise target

After a break of nearly two hours, the match was reduced to 17 overs per side, with England setting a DLS-adjusted target of 168 overs. The situation called for a run-rate of just under 10 overs, which put immediate pressure on the visiting team.

England’s counterattack started shaky, with Philip Salt trailing by a point and Jacob Bethell not far behind, leaving England two points behind in the power play. Jos Buttler countered smoothly with 39 off 29 balls, but his dismissal once again opened the door for Sri Lanka.

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Tom Banton faces pressure to take charge

With wickets falling at regular intervals, Tom Banton Become a stabilizing force for England. Promoted to midfield, Banton’s skills were beyond his years, blending clean hitting with clever rotation.

Banton scored an unbeaten 54 off 33 balls, which included three fours and three sixes, and he timed his acceleration perfectly in the final over. His clinical performance allowed England to keep pace with the DLS’s par score throughout the chase.

Captain Harry Brook made a cameo appearance in the match, scoring 36 runs off just 12 balls, but lost to Matheesha Pathirana, but by this time England were firmly in control.

All-rounder Sam Curran complemented Banton and remained unbeaten on 20 off 14 balls. The pair ensured England crossed the line with two balls remaining, Completed 4 times in 16.4 rounds, scoring 173 points.

Once Bandon settled in, it was difficult for Sri Lanka’s bowlers to contain England. Patialana was expensive despite picking up two wickets, while Wanindu Hasaranga was unable to produce his usual control.

Tom Banton was named Man of the Match for his outstanding batting performance.

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