Rawalpindi, Oct 23:
Sri Lanka pulled off a remarkable two-wicket victory over England in a high-scoring ODI tri-series thriller, chasing down a mammoth target of 430 with one ball to spare at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Thursday.
England captain Harry Brook produced a historic innings of 202 off 116 balls, but his effort went in vain as Sri Lanka finished at 430 for eight in 49.5 overs. The match featured more than 850 runs, making it one of the most extraordinary contests in one-day international cricket.
England, asked to bat first after Sri Lanka captain Kusal Mendis won the toss and elected to field, piled up 429 for four in their 50 overs. Brook dominated the innings with a breathtaking double century, becoming the first England batter to score 200 in men’s ODIs. He reached the milestone in just 114 balls, setting a new record for the fastest double century in the format.
Brook struck 21 fours and 10 sixes, surpassing Ben Stokes’ previous England record of 182 not out. Joe Root contributed 69, while Will Jacks provided a late flourish with an unbeaten 66 off just 24 balls. Tom Banton also made a useful 50 as England mounted an imposing total.
Sri Lanka’s chase began under pressure, but Avishka Fernando’s 97 laid the foundation for a stunning response. Pavan Rathnayake then played a superb innings of 130 off 106 balls, keeping Sri Lanka in contention despite the demanding run rate.
Dasun Shanaka added 97, narrowly missing a century, while Janith Liyanage struck a rapid half-century to maintain the momentum. Sri Lanka continued to attack England’s bowling and refused to surrender even as wickets fell in the closing overs.
The finish was tense, with England fighting back through Josh Tongue, who claimed three wickets for 79 runs. However, Sri Lanka held their nerve to reach the target at 430 for eight in 49.5 overs, winning by two wickets with one ball remaining.
The victory boosted Sri Lanka’s campaign in the tri-series, which also features Pakistan. For England, Brook’s record-breaking innings was overshadowed by their inability to defend a total of 429, despite coming close to securing victory in the final over.