Harry Brook smashed an unbeaten 114 as England defeated Sri Lanka by 119 runs in the first T20 international in Southampton. The captain’s explosive century helped England post 254-4 before Sri Lanka were bowled out for 135.
Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to bowl, but England quickly established control after debutant Aneurin Donald struck an early six and four before falling for 12. Brook joined Jos Buttler and the pair launched a powerful counterattack, with Buttler reaching 80 from 44 balls while Brook accelerated to his second T20 international century from 42 balls. Brook finished unbeaten on 114 from 49 deliveries, including 10 fours and six sixes, as England reached 254-4 from their 20 overs.
Sri Lanka’s chase struggled from the opening overs as Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara and Lahiru Udara fell during the powerplay, leaving the visitors at 32-3. Dasun Shanaka and Dunith Wellalage offered some resistance, but England’s bowlers continued to take wickets, with Sonny Baker producing his best T20 international performance with 3-12 from four overs. Sri Lanka were eventually dismissed for 135 in 19 overs, giving England a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
The result gives England early momentum in the series, with the second T20I scheduled for Cardiff on Thursday, followed by the third match in Manchester on Saturday. The teams will then meet in a three-match ODI series beginning in Chester-le-Street on Sept. 22.
Sources: The Guardian, BBC Sport, ESPNcricinfo, ICC and Reuters.