Will Jacks shines as England crush Sri Lanka in Super Eight clash

PALLEKELE: England defeated Sri Lanka by 51 runs in the Super Eight match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, delivering a strong all-round performance. After batting first and posting 146 for nine in 20 overs, England bowled out Sri Lanka for just 95 in 16.4 overs.

Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka, who came in at number seven, was the top scorer for his side with 30 off 24 balls. The rest of the batting line-up struggled to build partnerships and failed to chase the modest target.

Pathum Nissanka scored 9 (8), Kamil Mishara 6 (11), Kusal Mendis 4 (4), Pavan Ratnayake 0 (1), Dunith Wellalage 10 (10), and Kamindu Mendis 13 (11). Dushan Hemantha made 5 (8), Dushmantha Chameera 6 (13), Maheesh Theekshana 10 (8), and Dilshan Madushanka 0 (2).

For England, Will Jacks took three wickets, while Jofra Archer, Liam Dawson, and Adil Rashid picked up two wickets each. Jamie Overton claimed one wicket. Jacks earned the Player of the Match award for his all-round performance.

Earlier, opener Phil Salt anchored England’s innings with a solid 62 off 40 balls. Will Jacks provided useful support with 21 off 14 deliveries. Despite a disciplined bowling effort from Sri Lanka, their batters could not rise to the occasion.

Dunith Wellalage was the pick of the bowlers for Sri Lanka with three wickets, while Dilshan Madushanka and Maheesh Theekshana claimed two wickets each. With this defeat, Sri Lanka must win their remaining two matches to keep their semi-final hopes alive.