England’s bowling attack led from the front in the second innings against tournament co-hosts Sri Lanka to clinch a 51-run victory in Group 2 round one of the Super 8s.
Sri Lanka initially held momentum heading into the second innings, having skittled Harry Brook’s men for a chaseable 147.
However, a second innings batting implosion saw Sri Lanka all out for 95 runs – with spinner Will Jacks claiming three for 22 and a Player of the Match award for his efforts.
Key takeaways
England’s woes with bat-in-hand continued as the top order comprising Jos Buttler (7), Jacob Bethell (3), and Tom Banton (6) all fell for single-digit scores.
Opener Phil Salt, however, did manage a commendable 62 from 40 deliveries.
Sri Lanka’s Dunith Wellalage was a key performer with the ball, picking up three for 26 from his four overs.
Jacks’ bowling efforts were backed up by Jofra Archer (2-20), Liam Dawson (2-27), and Adil Rashid (2-13) to easily bypass Sri Lanka’s deplorable batting showing.
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Jacks: ‘We haven’t been at our best’
Player of the Match Jacks spoke on England’s struggles in the tournament post-game. However, he also underlined the side’s grit and attitude that has helped them grind out close games.
“We haven’t quite been at our best as a team but importantly we’ve been winning close games,” Jacks told Sky Sports.
“It was a relief to get through the stage where you’re expected to win. Then when you play the better teams the pressure is off you.
“You can go out there and play your way. We know if we play with freedom and unity that more often than not we’ll be in the right position.”
Leading from the front
“I love responsibility with the ball. It encourages me to get into the game and perform better,” he continued.
“Bowling in the powerplay is something I’ve done a lot so it’s not foreign to me – when we get on a surface like that I know what I need to do.
Challenge ahead
England meet Pakistan next in Pallekele on Tuesday, February 24, in round two of the Super 8s, followed by New Zealand in Colombo on Friday, February 27.
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SportJustSport writers