A commanding century from Harry Brook guided England to a decisive 53-run victory over Sri Lanka in Colombo, securing a 2-1 series win in the final ODI.
After being asked to bat first, England’s innings was anchored by a significant partnership between Joe Root and Jacob Bethell, who steadied the side following early setbacks. Root, demonstrating his enduring class, compiled a composed century, while Bethell contributed a fluent 65.
However, it was captain Harry Brook who transformed the innings with a display of explosive power. Entering the fray with the platform set, Brook unleashed an unbeaten 136 from just 66 deliveries. His innings, featuring 11 fours and 9 sixes, propelled England to a formidable total of 357.
Sri Lanka’s reply began aggressively, with Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis racing to a rapid start. Yet, the pursuit lost momentum as wickets fell at regular intervals, despite a valiant maiden century from young batter Pavan Rathnayake. His resilient effort kept Sri Lankan hopes alive, but the mounting required rate and consistent breakthroughs from the England attack ultimately proved insurmountable.
The victory marks a significant overseas achievement for England, clinching their first ODI series win on foreign soil in three years and handing Sri Lanka their first home series defeat in the format in five years. Brook’s dominant performance with the bat was the defining contribution of the decisive contest.