Sports | England Clinches ODI Series 2-1 Against Sri Lanka: Brook and Root Centuries Overpower Rathnayake's Maiden Ton
By Newzvia
Quick Summary
England defeated Sri Lanka by 53 runs in the decisive third ODI on January 27, 2026, in Colombo, securing the series 2-1 after posting 357/3 powered by unbeaten centuries from Harry Brook and Joe Root. Sri Lanka managed 304 all out in pursuit, highlighted by Pavan Rathnayake's valiant maiden ODI hundred of 121 and Pathum Nissanka's 50. Sam Curran's yorker sealed the win by dismissing Rathnayake.
England Seals Series Victory in Thrilling Colombo Showdown
England triumphed over Sri Lanka by 53 runs in the third and final ODI on January 27, 2026, at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo, clinching the series 2-1. Batting first, England amassed a formidable 357/3 in 50 overs, driven by masterful unbeaten centuries from Harry Brook (136*) and Joe Root (his 20th ODI ton). Sri Lanka's chase fell short at 304 all out, despite a heroic maiden ODI hundred from Pavan Rathnayake (121).
England's Batting Dominance Sets Massive Target
England's innings showcased clinical aggression. Openers laid a solid foundation before Jacob Bethell contributed a brisk 65. The pivotal partnership between Brook and Root accelerated relentlessly, with Brook's innovative strokeplay and Root's elegant timing pushing the score beyond 350. Key moments included Brook's slicing boundaries and Root's precise placements, leaving Sri Lanka's bowlers, including Asitha Fernando and Wanindu Hasaranga, searching for breakthroughs.
- Harry Brook: 136* (highest ODI score)
- Joe Root: 100 (20th ODI century)
- Jacob Bethell: 65
- Extras and quick running added crucial runs
Sri Lanka's Valiant Chase Led by Rathnayake's Milestone
Chasing 358, Sri Lanka started strongly with Pathum Nissanka scoring a confident 50, pulling short balls with authority. Pavan Rathnayake stole the spotlight, crafting his maiden ODI century with composure under pressure. Despite contributions from others, regular wickets mounted, and the required rate proved insurmountable.
Sam Curran delivered the decisive blow, trapping Rathnayake lbw with a searing yorker as Sri Lanka slumped to 304. Hasaranga and lower-order batsmen fought gamely but couldn't bridge the gap.
- Pavan Rathnayake: 121 (maiden ODI hundred)
- Pathum Nissanka: 50
- Target: 358; Fell short by 53 runs
Series Context and Key Performances
This victory marked England's resurgence in the tour, overcoming earlier setbacks to dominate the decider. Brook's unfinished knock stood out as his career-best in ODIs, while Root's experience anchored the innings. For Sri Lanka, Rathnayake's ton offered hope amid bowling struggles, with fielding efforts like sharp catches providing brief respite.
The match highlighted England's batting depth against Sri Lanka's resilient chase, setting the stage for future encounters in the bilateral series.