Match Summary: Second Metro Bank ODI
- Result: Sri Lanka won by 16 runs
- Sri Lanka: 321-6 (50 overs)
- England: 305-9 (50 overs)
Sri Lanka secured a 16-run victory at Headingley, setting up a series finale this Sunday at The Oval. Kusal Mendis spearheaded the tourists’ innings with a fine 122, supported by Kamindu Mendis’ 54, as Sri Lanka posted a competitive 321-6 against England’s bowling attack, which saw Rehan Ahmed claim 2-48.
England’s pursuit began strongly with a 143-run opening partnership between Tom Banton and Ben Duckett. However, the momentum shifted during a mid-innings collapse where England lost 3-14. Jos Buttler attempted to steady the chase, showcasing his vintage form by hitting five sixes off the Sri Lankan spinners.
The England captain’s progress was halted when he retired hurt on 67 after suffering a hamstring injury. With England needing 68 runs from 75 balls, the required chase became increasingly difficult as Rehan Ahmed, Gus Atkinson, and Jamie Overton fell in quick succession.
Buttler bravely returned to the crease with 27 runs required from 14 balls, watching from the non-striker’s end as Will Jacks was dismissed for 52. Limited by his injury and unable to run effectively, Buttler was eventually caught at deep mid-wicket in the final over while trying to chase 19 runs. England concluded on 305-9, handing Sri Lanka a deserved win built on clinical reverse swing from their seamers. The report also notes that sri Lanka 321-6 (50 overs): Kusal 121, Kamindu 54; Ahmed 2-48. The report also notes that england 305-9 (50 overs): Banton 73, Buttler 69; Wellalage 3-49.
