Colombo: England posted a strong total of 357 for 3 wickets in the third and deciding ODI against Sri Lanka after winning the toss and opting to bat first. The innings was anchored by impressive centuries from Harry Brook and Joe Root.
The England innings began with early setbacks as Ben Duckett and Rehan Ahmed fell cheaply, scoring 7 and 24 runs respectively, leaving the team struggling at 40 for 2. However, the experienced Joe Root and young Jacob Bethell steadied the innings with a crucial 126-run partnership for the third wicket.
Bethell contributed 65 runs off 72 balls, including eight boundaries, before being dismissed when the team score reached 166. Following his departure, Harry Brook joined Joe Root at the crease and quickly took control of the innings.
Brook and Root added a formidable 191 runs in 18.5 overs, guiding England to a commanding 357 for 3 at the end of their 50 overs. Brook remained unbeaten on 136 off 66 balls, hitting nine sixes and eleven fours. He reached his half-century in 40 balls and completed his century in 57 balls, marking his third ODI century and his highest score to date.
Joe Root also remained not out with a well-crafted 111 runs from 108 balls, featuring one six and nine fours. This was Root’s 20th ODI century, underscoring his consistency and skill at the international level.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers struggled to contain the English batsmen. Asitha Fernando was expensive, conceding 77 runs in 9 overs, while Wanindu Hasaranga and Jeffrey Vandersay both gave away 76 runs in their full 10 overs. Zenith Liyanage was the most economical bowler, giving just 7 runs in 3 overs.
This match is the series decider, with both teams having won one game each so far. England’s imposing total now sets Sri Lanka a challenging target of 358 runs to secure the series victory.
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