England marked a powerful entry into T20 World Cup Super 8s, thrashing Sri Lanka by 51 runs at Pallekele. Phil Salt’s blistering 62 off 40 balls lifted England to 146-9, a total their bowlers defended with flair as Sri Lanka tumbled to 95 all out in 16.4 overs.
Shanaka’s battling 30 stood alone amid Sri Lanka’s batting meltdown. Mendis (13) and Wellalage (10) offered little else. Jacks spearheaded with three wickets for 22 runs, Archer and Dawson took two each, and Rashid excelled at 2-13. The English attack mixed fire and guile perfectly.
Sent in to bat, England lost early wickets: Buttler for 7, Bethell 3, Banton’s run-out at 6, Brook 14, Curran 11. Jacks hit 21 off 14, but Salt’s six fours and two sixes turned the game. His knock stabilized and accelerated, crucial on a two-paced pitch.
Wellalage impressed for Sri Lanka with 3-26, Madushanka and Theekshana snaring two wickets each. But the chase exposed frailties. England now lead their Super 8 group, their bowlers’ control underscoring strengths beyond batting fireworks.
This win blends individual brilliance with team strategy. Salt’s maturity shone through, while the bowling unit’s hunger was palpable. Sri Lanka’s top-order failures persist as a concern. England, with momentum surging, eye semifinal spots confidently.