Tom Banton Stars as England Clinch T20 Series Win Over Sri Lanka in Rain-Hit Thriller
England continued their impressive build-up to the T20 World Cup by sealing a six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the second T20 international at Pallekele, completing a 2-0 series win with one match still to play. The contest, disrupted by rain and reshaped by the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method, showcased England’s depth, adaptability and growing confidence in subcontinental conditions.
At the heart of England’s success was Tom Banton, who struck an unbeaten 54 off 33 balls, guiding his side through a tense chase with maturity and controlled aggression. His innings, supported by key contributions from Jos Buttler and a blistering cameo from Harry Brook, ensured England chased down a revised target of 168 from 17 overs to wrap up victory with two balls to spare.
Rain Changes the Script
England’s chase began steadily before rain intervened with the visitors on 57-2 after 7.2 overs, having lost Phil Salt and Jacob Bethell. Following the interruption, the match resumed with England set a new target under DLS calculations, adding pressure and urgency to the chase.
Despite the shift in momentum, England responded calmly. Jos Buttler, once again anchoring the innings, played a crucial knock of 39 from 29 balls, laying a solid platform and ensuring England did not panic after the rain delay.
Brook Ignites the Chase
While Buttler provided stability, it was Harry Brook who injected belief into England’s dressing room and urgency into the chase. The England captain unleashed a breathtaking assault, smashing 36 runs from just 12 balls, including four towering sixes, to swing the momentum sharply in England’s favour.
Brook’s fearless approach put Sri Lanka’s bowlers on the back foot, particularly targeting their death specialist Matheesha Pathirana. Although Brook eventually fell attempting an audacious scoop shot, his cameo had already changed the complexion of the match.
Banton Finishes the Job
With 38 runs needed from 33 balls, responsibility shifted firmly onto Banton’s shoulders. Showing composure beyond his years, the Somerset batter paced his innings perfectly, mixing inventive sweeps with powerful strokes down the ground.
Banton struck four fours and three sixes, punishing loose deliveries while smartly rotating the strike when needed. His calm presence allowed England to remain in control as the match edged toward the final over.
When the moment arrived, Sam Curran sealed the win in emphatic style, launching Janith Liyanage for a six to complete the chase with two balls remaining and confirm England’s series triumph.
Sri Lanka’s Competitive Total
Earlier in the evening, Sri Lanka posted a challenging 189-5 after being asked to bat first. The hosts started aggressively, with openers Pathum Nissanka and Kamil Mishara blasting 35 runs from the first two overs, setting a rapid tempo.
However, England’s bowling unit, particularly their spinners, responded well to regain control. Pavan Rathnayake top-scored for Sri Lanka with a brisk 40 off 22 balls, but regular wickets prevented the hosts from accelerating fully.
England’s spin trio proved effective in the middle overs. Adil Rashid, Liam Dawson, and Will Jacks each claimed a wicket while keeping the run rate in check, applying pressure on Sri Lanka’s middle order.
Mixed Returns for Seamers
While England’s spinners impressed, the seam attack experienced mixed fortunes. Jofra Archer finished with 2-42, recovering well after an expensive start in which Nissanka dispatched him for a six.
In contrast, Jamie Overton and Sam Curran endured tough outings, conceding runs without taking wickets. Curran, still shaking off rust after an expensive spell in the opening T20, struggled for rhythm early but redeemed himself with the match-winning blow at the end.
Banton’s World Cup Case Strengthens
Banton’s performance could not have come at a better time. Once hailed as England’s next batting sensation after bursting onto the international scene in 2019, his progress was slowed by injuries and questions over consistency.
Now 27 and operating in the middle order rather than as an opener, Banton appears far more assured. His innings in Pallekele was built on awareness, patience and smart shot selection — qualities that England value highly heading into a major tournament.
Speaking after the match, Banton highlighted the importance of assessing conditions and adapting accordingly, particularly against Sri Lanka’s disciplined spin attack.
With Ben Duckett sidelined due to a finger injury, Banton has been handed an opportunity — and another strong showing in the final T20 could secure him a place in England’s World Cup XI.
Spin Attack Shows Promise
England’s spin bowling once again stood out, a promising sign ahead of a subcontinental T20 World Cup. Across 12 overs, the spinners conceded just 81 runs while taking three wickets, maintaining an economy rate of 6.75.
Rashid remains England’s trump card, capable of breaking partnerships and stalling momentum. Dawson offered control with subtle variations, while Jacks continued to grow in confidence as a reliable all-round option.
The variety and discipline within England’s spin department give captain Harry Brook multiple tactical options, even on surfaces that offer limited turn.
Areas to Improve
Despite the win, England will note areas needing refinement. The seam attack lacked consistency, particularly on a used pitch that demanded precision. With the World Cup just days away, fine-tuning lengths and death-over execution will be a priority.
Nevertheless, Archer’s recovery and effectiveness at the death provided reassurance, while the overall bowling effort did enough to defend a competitive total.
Captains React
England skipper Harry Brook praised his team’s composure and adaptability, highlighting Banton’s innings and the strength of England’s batting depth.
Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka acknowledged his side’s strong batting display but pointed to the absence of injured death bowler Eshan Malinga as a key factor in the defeat.
Looking Ahead
England’s victory secures a 2-0 series lead, giving them confidence and momentum heading into the final match and their T20 World Cup opener against Nepal on 8 February.
With batters finding form, spinners delivering control and squad depth proving invaluable, England appear well placed to challenge strongly on the global stage.
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