Match Summary
- Result: Sri Lanka won by 16 runs
- Sri Lanka: 321-6 (50 overs)
- England: 305-9 (50 overs)
Sri Lanka forced a series decider at The Oval after a resilient 16-run victory over England in the second one-day international at Headingley. Captain Kusal Mendis spearheaded the tourists’ effort, scoring 121, while Kamindu Mendis added 54 to set a competitive target of 322. Rehan Ahmed provided the pick of the bowling for England, taking 2-48.
The Chase and Buttler’s Return
England appeared in control of the pursuit, needing 68 runs from 75 balls, until captain Jos Buttler was forced to retire hurt on 67 with a hamstring issue. The momentum shifted as England suffered a collapse of 3-14, ruining the foundation built by Tom Banton (73) and Ben Duckett. Dunith Wellalage proved pivotal for Sri Lanka, finishing with 3-49.
Despite his injury, a hobbling Buttler returned to the crease with 27 runs required from 14 balls. He watched from the non-striker’s end as Will Jacks fell for 52. Tasked with hitting 19 from the final over, a restricted Buttler could only manage to hole out at deep mid-wicket, ending the hosts’ resistance. While the setback hindered England, Sri Lanka’s effective use of reverse swing by their seamers in the final stages ensured they leveled the series.
The conclusion of the international summer and the series decider is scheduled for Sunday at 10:30 BST. The report also notes that england 305-9 (50 overs): Banton 73, Buttler 69; Wellalage 3-49. The report also notes that england finished on 306-9 as Sri Lanka won by 16 runs.
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