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Sri Lanka were beaten by 55 runs by England in a thrilling one-day international at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday, 29 October 2026. England posted an imposing 386-5 before dismissing the hosts for 331 in 45.1 overs.
The result gave England a much-needed consolation victory at the end of the tri-series group stage. Although Harry Brook’s side will not feature in the final, the performance offered valuable encouragement before their upcoming limited-overs series against Australia.
Sri Lanka fall short after thrilling chase
Chasing 387, Sri Lanka endured an early setback when Kamindu Mendis was bowled by Sonny Baker for just four. Avishka Fernando and Kusal Mendis then rebuilt the innings, with the pair adding momentum during the middle overs.
Kusal Mendis produced one of the innings’ most aggressive contributions, striking 89 from 71 balls. His dismissal, caught by Jordan Cox from Joe Root’s bowling, left Sri Lanka needing another major partnership to keep pace with England’s demanding total.
Pavan Rathnayake carried the fight deep into the chase. The young batter struck a superb 118 from 77 deliveries, including 17 fours and five sixes, and repeatedly threatened to turn the contest in Sri Lanka’s favour.
However, England kept taking wickets at key moments. Rathnayake was caught by Sonny Baker off Liam Dawson, while Dasun Shanaka and Janith Liyanage also departed as the required run rate continued to rise.
- Pavan Rathnayake scored 118 from 77 balls.
- Kusal Mendis contributed a rapid 89.
- Sri Lanka were bowled out for 331 in 45.1 overs.
- Liam Dawson finished with four wickets for England.
Ben Duckett powers England to explosive total
England’s innings was built around a magnificent 167 from Ben Duckett, his second century in as many matches. Duckett faced 132 balls and struck 19 fours and two sixes, combining control with attacking intent throughout the innings.
Tom Banton provided an ideal platform at the top of the order, making 74 from 75 balls. Their partnership helped England survive the opening overs before accelerating through the middle and final stages.
Harry Brook added 44, while Jordan Cox made 43 and Sam Curran finished unbeaten on 21. England’s top six delivered the substantial contributions required to set a formidable target on a good batting surface.
Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to field, but England’s batters made the decision look increasingly costly. The visitors scored freely against the seamers and spinners, reaching 386-5 from their allotted 50 overs.
Brilliant Dawson seals decisive England victory
England’s bowlers faced a tense period when Rathnayake and Kusal Mendis were scoring quickly. Dawson eventually broke through with a crucial spell, claiming four wickets for 49 runs from his 10 overs.
Sonny Baker also impressed, taking two wickets for 52 runs. Sam Curran, Joe Root and Henry Crocombe claimed one wicket apiece, while Root also contributed in the field with a run-out.
The final stages were particularly dramatic. Sri Lanka lost five wickets for 16 runs across 17 deliveries, allowing England to close out a match that had appeared to be slipping away earlier in the chase.
At the presentation, England captain Harry Brook said his team had “a clear plan” with the ball. He acknowledged that England had not achieved the series result they wanted but said the players could take confidence from their batting and improved discipline.
What the result means for both teams
The victory prevents England from ending the group stage with three consecutive defeats. Their campaign included huge batting totals and several competitive performances, but missed opportunities with the ball and in the field proved costly.
England now turn their attention to Australia, with a three-match ODI series scheduled to begin in Perth on Friday, 13 November. The contrasting conditions will test whether their batters and bowlers can carry this momentum forward.
Sri Lanka will meet Pakistan in the tri-series final at Lahore on Saturday. Despite this defeat, Rathnayake’s century and Mendis’ aggressive innings provide encouraging signs for the hosts, while their late collapse highlights the need for greater composure under pressure.
FAQs about Sri Lanka’s defeat
Who won the match between Sri Lanka and England?
England defeated Sri Lanka by 55 runs at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
What was England’s score?
England scored 386-5 in their 50 overs, led by Ben Duckett’s 167.
Who was Sri Lanka’s top scorer?
Pavan Rathnayake was Sri Lanka’s leading scorer with a brilliant 118 from 77 balls.
How many wickets did Liam Dawson take?
Liam Dawson claimed four wickets for 49 runs from 10 overs.
What happens next for Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka will face Pakistan in the tri-series final at Lahore on Saturday.
