Posted - Oct 22, 2026, 10:27 pm 2026-10-22T22:27:32+06:00
Updated - Oct 22, 2026, 10:27 pm 2026-10-22T22:27:32+06:00
Sri Lanka pulled off a sensational two-wicket victory over England in a record-breaking ODI tri-series encounter at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Thursday, successfully chasing a mammoth target of 430 after Harry Brook's historic double century appeared to have put England in control. England captain Brook produced a remarkable innings of 202 off just 116 balls, becoming the first English batter to score a double century in men's ODI cricket. His explosive knock, featuring 21 fours and 10 sixes, helped England post an imposing 429-4 in their 50 overs. Joe Root contributed 69 off 66 deliveries, while Tom Banton struck a half-century. Will Jacks provided a spectacular late flourish, smashing an unbeaten 66 off just 24 balls to propel England beyond the 400-run mark. However, Sri Lanka refused to surrender despite the daunting target. Their batters responded with extraordinary determination, producing one of the most remarkable successful chases in ODI history. Avishka Fernando set the foundation with an aggressive 97, narrowly missing out on a century. Pavan Rathnayake then delivered a magnificent performance, scoring 130 off 106 balls to keep Sri Lanka firmly in contention. Dasun Shanaka added further pressure on PaEngland with a blistering 97, while Janith Liyanage contributed a quickfire 55. Their combined efforts ensured the required run rate remained within reach during the decisive stages. England desperately searched for breakthroughs, but Sri Lanka's middle order continued to attack. The contest went down to the final over, with the outcome remaining uncertain until the closing deliveries. Josh Tongue claimed three wickets, but England ultimately failed to defend their enormous total. Sri Lanka reached 430-8 in 49.5 overs, sealing a stunning victory with two wickets remaining. The result overshadowed Brook's extraordinary individual achievement and exposed England's struggles to contain a relentless batting assault. For Sri Lanka, the victory represented a remarkable demonstration of composure, attacking intent and belief under pressure. Rathnayake's century and Shanaka's explosive contribution proved decisive in completing an extraordinary chase. Despite Brook's record-breaking innings, Sri Lanka emerged victorious in a contest that will be remembered for its astonishing run-scoring and dramatic finish.
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