London: England’s spin attack delivered a timely statement ahead of the T20 World Cup, as they secured a 12-run victory over Sri Lanka to complete a 3–0 series sweep in the final match of the tour.
In a low-scoring contest on a turning Kandy surface, England defended a modest total of 128 for nine, their lowest ever against Sri Lanka in men’s T20 internationals. Left-arm spinner Jacob Bethell and off-spinner Will Jacks produced career-best performances, sharing seven wickets to dismantle the Sri Lankan chase and restrict the hosts to 116 all out.
Early Trouble for England, Curran Rescues Innings
England’s innings never gathered momentum after fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera tore through the top order with a five-wicket haul. Ben Duckett fell without scoring, while Bethell, Tom Banton and captain Harry Brook departed cheaply, leaving England reeling at 34 for four inside six overs.
Jos Buttler’s brief stay ended when Maheesh Theekshana found sharp turn to breach the gap between bat and pad. With wickets falling regularly, Sam Curran played a crucial anchoring role, scoring a fighting 58 to lift England to a competitive total despite the pressure.
Spinners Take Control
Sri Lanka’s chase suffered an immediate blow when Luke Wood dismissed Kamil Mishara in the opening over. From there, England’s spinners tightened their grip. Liam Dawson removed Pathum Nissanka for 23, while Adil Rashid struck to further dent the hosts’ progress.
Will Jacks then ripped through the middle order, claiming key wickets including Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis and Janith Liyanage, reducing Sri Lanka to 97 for six. Bethell delivered the decisive blow with three wickets in the 18th over, effectively sealing the contest.
Needing 14 from the final over, Sri Lanka’s hopes ended when Maheesh Theekshana was caught attempting a big hit, as the hosts were dismissed with three balls remaining.
Confidence Boost Before World Cup
England captain Harry Brook praised his side’s adaptability, particularly the spinners’ control in familiar Sri Lankan conditions. The victory gives England valuable confidence heading into the World Cup, where conditions are expected to favour slow bowlers.
England, two-time T20 world champions, now travel to Mumbai to begin their World Cup campaign against Nepal in Group C. Sri Lanka will open their tournament against Ireland in Colombo as part of Group B.
