Shakeel Ur Rehman
England produced a dominant performance in the first T20 International against Sri Lanka at Southampton, defeating the visitors by 119 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Batting first, England posted a formidable 254 for 4 in 20 overs. Captain Harry Brook led the charge with a sensational unbeaten 114 from 49 balls, smashing 10 fours and six sixes. He reached his century from just 42 deliveries.
Brook received excellent support from former captain Jos Buttler, who struck a rapid 80 off 44 balls. The pair added 128 runs from only 60 balls, putting England firmly in control. Will Jacks contributed 21 from 12 balls.
In reply, Sri Lanka struggled against England’s bowling attack and were dismissed for 135 in 19 overs. Dunith Wellalage top-scored with 33 off 21 balls, while Dasun Shanaka made 24 off 14.
For England, Sonny Baker was the standout bowler, taking 3 wickets for just 12 runs from four overs. Jamie Overton and Liam Dawson claimed two wickets each.
Harry Brook was named Player of the Match. The result extended England’s winning run against Sri Lanka in T20Is to 13 consecutive matches. The second T20I will be played in Cardiff on Thursday, September 17.
