Liam Dawson’s disciplined spell and Tom Banton’s blistering half-century helped England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Cardiff and secure the Twenty20 international series with one match still to play. Chasing 146 for victory, the hosts reached their target in just 12.1 overs, finishing on 146 for four with 47 deliveries remaining.
Sri Lanka had made an encouraging start after being asked to bat first. Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis put England under early pressure, adding 55 runs during the first five overs. Their aggressive approach gave the visitors a solid platform and raised the prospect of a substantial total.
Dawson, however, changed the momentum during the final over of the powerplay. The spinner struck twice in quick succession, breaking up Sri Lanka’s opening partnership and putting their batting line-up under immediate pressure. The visitors were unable to rebuild effectively after that setback.
Nissanka top-scored with 37 from 21 deliveries, while Charith Asalanka contributed 31 and Wanindu Hasaranga made 27. Beyond those three innings, Sri Lanka struggled to maintain any sustained scoring. Wickets continued to fall, with the visitors losing nine wickets for only 90 runs after their strong beginning.
The late stages of the innings were particularly difficult for Sri Lanka. They managed only 12 runs during the final four overs, leaving England with a relatively modest target. Dawson finished with three wickets for 32 runs, while Jamie Overton claimed two as England’s bowlers steadily dismantled the Sri Lankan middle order.
England’s reply was aggressive from the outset. Jos Buttler and Aneurin Donald attacked the Sri Lankan attack and raced to 51 in only four and a half overs. The rapid start ensured that the required rate remained comfortably within reach.
Buttler made 30 before being dismissed, while Donald departed after scoring 21. England captain Harry Brook then provided another burst of momentum, hitting three sixes in an eight-ball cameo worth 23 runs.
Banton ultimately brought the chase to a swift conclusion. The right-hander struck an unbeaten 52 from just 24 balls, including four sixes, to ensure there was little drama during the closing stages. England reached 146 for four in 12.1 overs, completing a six-wicket victory with 47 balls unused.
Dawson was named Player of the Match for his influential contribution with the ball. His intervention at the end of the powerplay proved particularly significant, as Sri Lanka had looked well placed before the spinner’s double strike.
The result also extends England’s strong recent record in T20 cricket under head coach Brendon McCullum. England have now won 22 of their last 25 T20 internationals during his tenure. Their current international T20I win rate is reported at 88 per cent, a figure that underlines the consistency of their results in the format.
With the series already decided, the two sides will meet for the final match at Old Trafford next Saturday. Sri Lanka will have the opportunity to finish the series with a victory, while England will look to maintain their momentum and complete the contest with another strong performance.
