England produced another dominant performance to seal a 3-0 series whitewash against Sri Lanka with an eight-wicket victory in Manchester on Saturday, reclaiming the top spot in ICC T20I rankings ahead of World Champions India.
The victory marked England's 15th consecutive T20I win against Sri Lanka, equaling Pakistan's record against Zimbabwe for the most consecutive victories against a single opponent in T20I history.
Opting to bat first at Old Trafford, Sri Lanka collapsed for 124 in 18.5 overs, losing their final six wickets for just 17 runs. Pathum Nissanka scored 36 off 24 balls, while Kamindu Mendis added 35 off 28 balls. Jamie Overton led England's bowling attack with figures of 1 for 15 in four overs, supported by two wickets each from Sonny Baker, Jofra Archer, and Will Jacks.
In response, England chased down the 125-run target in just 9.4 overs. Jos Buttler earned the Player of the Match award with an unbeaten 62 off 32 balls, featuring seven boundaries and two sixes. Captain Harry Brook contributed 33 off 21 balls, putting together an 85-run second-wicket partnership off 39 balls with Buttler.
Brook was named Player of the Series after accumulating 170 runs across the three matches.
-SA