Harry Brook's unbeaten 136 off 66 balls, featuring nine sixes and 11 fours, powered England to a 53-run victory in the decisive third ODI against Sri Lanka in Colombo. The win secured England's first ODI series victory abroad in three years.
Brook's carnage overshadowed Joe Root's 20th ODI century, which was reduced to a supporting role, and Jacob Bethell's 65. England's total of 358 was their highest away from home.
Sri Lanka's chase began aggressively, with Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis both reaching 50 inside the powerplay. However, regular wickets, including two catches for Brook, halted their momentum. Pavan Rathnayake scored a maiden ODI century for Sri Lanka, but his dismissal in the final over ended the home side's resistance.
England had been reduced to 40 for two early on, but Root and Bethell rebuilt with a 126-run stand. After Bethell's dismissal, Brook took charge, reaching his century off just 57 balls. His brutal hitting throughout the innings stunned the Sri Lankan bowlers, including the usually economical Dunith Wellalage.
Brook won the toss and elected to bat, having earlier criticised the pitch conditions. His performance ensured England ended their winter on a high note with a series victory in Sri Lanka.
