Sri Lanka pulled off a remarkable eight-wicket victory over England in the third ODI of the tri-nation series at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Thursday, chasing down a massive 430-run target with one ball to spare.
England posted 429 for four in 50 overs, powered by captain Harry Brook’s explosive 202 off 116 balls and Will Jacks’ unbeaten 60 from 33 deliveries. Joe Root also contributed 69 runs.
In reply, Sri Lanka reached 433 for two in 49.5 overs. Player of the match Rathnayake led the chase with 130 off 106 balls, while Fernando narrowly missed a century with 97. Dasun Shanaka smashed a valuable 97 off just 50 deliveries, and Janith Liyanage sealed the win with an unbeaten 61 from 27 balls.
Despite losing two early wickets for 24 runs, Sri Lanka recovered through crucial partnerships, completing the second-highest successful run chase in ODI history.
For England, Josh Tongue claimed three wickets, while Sam Curran took two. Dunith Wellalage led Sri Lanka’s bowling attack with two wickets as England finished with a formidable total that ultimately proved insufficient.
