Root and Rashid Inspire England to Level ODI Series Against Sri Lanka
England's cricket team secured a much-needed five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the second one-day international, with Joe Root and Adil Rashid playing pivotal roles to level the series. This win marks a significant turnaround, ending England's 11-match away losing streak in ODIs and giving white-ball coach Brendon McCullum his first overseas victory in the format.
Root's Calming Innings Steadies England's Chase
Joe Root, a key figure from England's 2019 World Cup triumph, demonstrated his class with a composed 75 runs. His innings included elegant reverse-sweeps and provided the stability England desperately needed in a must-win game. Root's assured presence at the crease helped steer the chase after early wickets, though he was eventually dismissed lbw by Asitha Fernando's yorker. His partnership of 81 runs with Harry Brook was crucial in setting up the victory.
Rashid's Spin Dominance Restricts Sri Lanka
Adil Rashid led England's bowling attack with exceptional control, taking two wickets for just 34 runs in his 10 overs. On a turning pitch, Rashid did not concede a single boundary, masterfully floating the ball to induce mistakes from the Sri Lankan batsmen. His efforts, supported by economical spells from Liam Dawson and Will Jacks, limited Sri Lanka to a modest total of 219 runs. Rashid also contributed in the field with a spectacular low catch to dismiss Janith Liyanage.
England's Tactical Shifts Pay Off
Captain Harry Brook employed a spin-heavy strategy, using 40.3 overs of spin and involving eight different bowlers, including part-timer Joe Root. This approach tied down the hosts effectively, with Root even bowling the final over and taking two wickets. The team also saw a reshuffled batting order, with Rehan Ahmed promoted to open for the first time in his international career, though his stay was brief.
Key Moments in the Match
Sri Lanka struggled to build momentum, with Charith Asalanka top-scoring at 45 and Kusal Mendis falling for 26 after a mix-up. For England, Ben Duckett scored 39 before being bowled by Jeffrey Vandersay, while Brook made 42 off 75 balls. In the closing stages, Jos Buttler played a vital cameo, hitting powerful strokes to guide England home with Will Jacks at the other end, securing the win with 31 runs needed off 44 balls.
The series now heads to a decider on Tuesday, with both teams eager to claim the ODI trophy after this hard-fought contest.
