SOUTHAMPTON: England began the three-match T20 International series against Sri Lanka in emphatic fashion, sealing a 119-run victory in the opening match at Southampton to take a 1-0 lead.
Put into bat first, England piled up a daunting 254 for 4 in their 20 overs, with captain Harry Brook producing a match-winning unbeaten 114 off just 49 deliveries. Brook’s explosive innings included 10 fours and six sixes, while he brought up his century in only 42 balls.
Former captain Jos Buttler provided strong support with a brisk 80 from 44 balls. Brook and Buttler shared a decisive 128-run partnership off just 60 deliveries, allowing England to take complete command of the contest. Will Jacks also chipped in with 21 off 12 balls.
Chasing a huge target, Sri Lanka failed to build momentum and were bowled out for 135 in 19 overs. Dunith Wellalage was their leading scorer with 33 from 21 balls, while Dasun Shanaka made a quick 24 off 14 deliveries.
Sonny Baker led England’s bowling effort with impressive figures of 3 for 12 in four overs. Jamie Overton and Liam Dawson also played key roles, picking up two wickets each.
Brook was declared Player of the Match for his commanding century. The win also stretched England’s unbeaten run against Sri Lanka in T20 Internationals to 13 matches in a row.
The second T20I of the series is scheduled to be played in Cardiff on Thursday, September 17.
