COLOMBO — A masterclass in controlled aggression from Joe Root and a coming-of-age innings from Harry Brook propelled England to a commanding 53-run victory over Sri Lanka in the third and final ODI at the R. Premadasa Stadium on Wednesday, sealing a 2-0 series win. The pair’s unbroken 206-run partnership, both finishing on unbeaten centuries, rescued England from a precarious 77 for 4 and set up a total that proved beyond the hosts.
Chasing a daunting 291 for victory, Sri Lanka’s reply was anchored by a fighting 91 from captain Kusal Mendis and a belligerent 48 from Sadeera Samarawickrama. However, the required run rate proved too steep, and despite a late flurry from Maheesh Theekshana, the innings concluded at 237 for 9. The win marks a significant turnaround for England’s white-ball side, offering a blueprint for success in the post-World Cup era and providing crucial momentum ahead of the T20 World Cup defense next year.
A Platform Built on Grit and Grace
The foundation of England’s triumph was laid during a period of intense pressure. After winning the toss and choosing to bat, England’s top order faltered against a disciplined Sri Lankan attack on a pitch offering early assistance. Phil Salt, Jonny Bairstow, and captain Jos Buttler fell cheaply, while Ben Stokes, in what is expected to be his final ODI appearance, managed just 15. At 77 for 4 in the 17th over, with the spin duo of Dunith Wellalage and Theekshana applying a stranglehold, England were in serious danger of posting a sub-par total.
It was here that the experience of Root and the burgeoning talent of Brook converged. They began cautiously, respecting the conditions and the bowling, focusing on rebuilding the innings with sharp singles and calculated rotation of strike. Root, in particular, showcased the other side of his genius, shelving his trademark reverse-scoops and ramps for classical drives and deft late cuts. Brook played the perfect supporting role initially, before gradually expanding his own range of strokes.
The Partnership That Changed the Game
The turning point came as the partnership passed the century mark and the batting powerplay commenced. The duo expertly shifted gears, targeting the boundary with increasing frequency. Root reached his 17th ODI century first, a composed 107 not out from 97 balls, an innings of pure cricketing intelligence. He was soon joined in the three-figure club by Brook, who brought up his maiden ODI hundred in just his 12th match, finishing on a superb 102 not out from 97 deliveries. Their unbroken stand of 206 came off just 182 balls, a stunning acceleration that left the Sri Lankan bowlers bereft of answers.
Reflecting on the partnership and his own milestone, a delighted Harry Brook said in the post-match presentation, "It's a very proud moment. To get my first ODI hundred, and to do it in a series-winning cause with a legend like Joe Root at the other end, is incredibly special. We just tried to soak up the pressure early and knew that if we could get through that tough period, the opportunities would come later."
Bowling Unit Seals the Deal
Faced with a target of 291, Sri Lanka needed a strong start, but Reece Topley provided an early breakthrough, removing Avishka Fernando. Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis then built a steady partnership, but the introduction of spin changed the dynamic. Liam Livingstone, with his part-time leg-spin, proved unexpectedly potent, claiming the key wickets of Nissanka and the dangerous Charith Asalanka in quick succession.
Mendis fought valiantly, but his dismissal for 91, caught brilliantly by a diving Sam Curran off Adil Rashid, effectively ended Sri Lanka’s hopes. The England bowling attack demonstrated impressive discipline and variety:
- Liam Livingstone was the surprise package, finishing with figures of 3 for 40, exploiting the turning track perfectly.
- Adil Rashid was typically economical and clever, taking 1 for 38 from his 10 overs.
- Reece Topley provided crucial early and late wickets, ending with 2 for 48.
Despite a spirited 38-run last-wicket stand between Theekshana and Dilshan Madushanka, the result was never in doubt. The comprehensive nature of the victory was a testament to England’s depth and their ability to dominate from a position of weakness.
Looking Ahead: A Blueprint for the Future
This series win holds significance beyond the immediate result. It represents a successful first step in England’s ODI rebuild following a disappointing World Cup defense in India. The emergence of Harry Brook as a reliable middle-order fulcrum, capable of both anchoring and accelerating, solves a long-term puzzle. Joe Root’s reaffirmation of his class as the team’s premier anchor provides invaluable stability. Captain Jos Buttler was effusive in his praise for the match-winners, stating, "The partnership between Joe and Harry was just magnificent. It was a proper 'daddy' hundred partnership. They absorbed pressure beautifully and then put the foot down at the perfect time. That's the template for us moving forward."
The bowling attack, often under scrutiny, showed they could adapt and succeed in subcontinental conditions. The use of Livingstone as a frontline spinner, the control of Rashid, and the wicket-taking threat of Topley offer a balanced and flexible attack. This series has also provided valuable game time for the next generation of players, integrating them into a winning culture.
Conclusion: A Statement of Intent
England’s victory in Colombo was built on the twin pillars of youthful exuberance and seasoned mastery. While Harry Brook announced his arrival as a permanent fixture in the ODI setup with a dazzling, mature century, Joe Root delivered a timeless reminder of his enduring quality. Their record partnership did more than just win a match and a series; it signaled England’s intent to remain a formidable force in 50-over cricket. As the team shifts focus to the upcoming T20 World Cup, they do so with confidence restored, key questions answered, and a clear demonstration that the production line of match-winning talent, capable of performing under pressure, remains in full working order.