Pavan Rathnayake’s century and explosive contributions from Avishka Fernando and Dasun Shanaka powered Sri Lanka to a remarkable victory after Harry Brook’s record-breaking double century.
Sri Lanka produced a sensational batting performance to defeat England by two wickets in the Pakistan ODI Tri-Series at Rawalpindi on Thursday, October 22, chasing down a mammoth target of 430 with just one ball remaining.
England posted an imposing 429 for four in their 50 overs, but Sri Lanka responded with 430 for eight in 49.5 overs to complete one of the most remarkable successful run chases in One-Day International cricket history.
The victory came despite a spectacular innings from England captain Harry Brook, who smashed 202 off 116 balls, including 21 fours and 10 sixes. Brook became the first English batter to score an ODI double century, recording the fastest double hundred in the format’s history.
Joe Root contributed 69 off 66 deliveries, while Tom Banton scored 50 off 51 balls. Will Jacks provided a late burst of power, remaining unbeaten on 66 from just 30 deliveries as England finished with a formidable total.
Sri Lanka’s chase began under pressure as Kamindu Mendis fell for 18 and captain Kusal Mendis was run out without scoring, leaving the team struggling at 24 for two. However, Avishka Fernando and Pavan Rathnayake transformed the innings with a magnificent 166-run partnership for the third wicket.
Avishka played an outstanding innings of 97 off 83 balls, striking 11 fours and two sixes, narrowly missing a century. Rathnayake, meanwhile, produced the innings of his career, scoring 130 off 106 deliveries with 15 fours and three sixes. His composed yet aggressive batting earned him the Player of the Match award.
Dasun Shanaka then brought Sri Lanka within touching distance of victory with a breathtaking 97 off just 50 balls, hitting six fours and eight sixes. His explosive innings maintained the required scoring rate and kept Sri Lanka firmly in contention.
With the match entering a dramatic final phase, Janith Liyanage took responsibility for finishing the job. He remained unbeaten on 61 from 27 balls, hitting seven fours and three sixes. Although England briefly threatened to turn the contest around by taking late wickets, Liyanage sealed the victory with a six off the penultimate delivery, sending the Sri Lankan camp into celebration.
For England, Josh Tongue claimed three wickets for 79 runs, while Sam Curran took two wickets but conceded 103 runs in nine overs. Dunith Wellalage was Sri Lanka’s most effective bowler, finishing with two for 56 as England piled up their enormous total.
The result gives Sri Lanka a crucial boost in the three-team tournament, while England will need to recover quickly after suffering their second defeat in as many matches.
Sri Lanka’s remarkable victory was built on resilience, fearless stroke play and outstanding individual performances. Even Brook’s historic double century could not prevent England from falling short in a match that will be remembered for its extraordinary scoring and thrilling finish
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