The R. Premadasa Stadium witnessed Sri Lanka’s dominance as they outplayed England by 19 runs in the first ODI, grabbing a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. A resolute batting display, led by Kusal Mendis’ 93 not out, set up the victory.
Sri Lanka, batting first post-toss win, reached 271 for 6. The opening duo of Pathum Nissanka (21, 2×4) and Kusal Mendis (27) raced to 50 in 10.3 overs. Losing both early left them at 54 for 2, but Mendis partnered with Dhananjaya de Silva (10) for 43 runs, then Charith Asalanka (17).
Mendis’ heroics shone through, unbeaten on 93 from 117 balls with 11 boundaries, alongside Janith Liyanage’s 46 in an 88-run alliance that proved decisive. England’s attack was led by Adil Rashid’s 3/xx, with Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, and Rehan Ahmed taking one wicket each.
In reply, England managed 252 in 49.2 overs. Early loss of Jack Crawley (6) was mitigated by Ben Duckett’s 62 (76 balls, 6×4) and Joe Root’s 61 (90 balls), their 117-run stand threatening victory. But timely wickets derailed them; Jamie Overton (34) and Rehan Ahmed (27) fought valiantly in vain.
This clinical performance underscores Sri Lanka’s home strength. England must regroup quickly for the remaining games to level the series.