Harry Brook produced a stunning unbeaten 136 off 66 balls to lead England to a 53-run victory in the deciding one-day international against Sri Lanka in Colombo, securing their first ODI series win abroad in three years. Brook's innings, featuring nine sixes and 11 fours, overshadowed Joe Root's 20th ODI century and Jacob Bethell's 65 as England posted a formidable 358 all out.
After winning the toss for the first time in seven ODIs, Brook elected to bat on a pitch he had previously criticised. England stumbled early, reduced to 40 for two inside 11 overs, with Ben Duckett and Rehan Ahmed falling to Wanindu Hasaranga. However, Root and Bethell steadied the innings with a 126-run partnership, before Brook took centre stage, reaching his century in just 57 balls.
Sri Lanka's chase began aggressively, with Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis racing to 100 inside 10 overs. However, Jamie Overton struck twice, and regular wickets kept England in control. Pavan Rathnayake scored a maiden century for Sri Lanka, but his dismissal in the final over sealed England's victory.
Brook's innings was a masterclass in power-hitting, particularly his assault on spinner Dunith Wellalage. The England captain's knock, combined with disciplined bowling and sharp fielding, ensured England's highest total away from home was enough to claim the series 2-1.
