In a stunning display of power-hitting, Harry Brook delivered a career-defining innings to secure England's One-Day International series victory against Sri Lanka. The young batsman's unbeaten 136 from a mere 66 balls, punctuated by nine colossal sixes and 11 fours, set up a commanding total that proved insurmountable for the hosts in the decisive third match at Colombo's R. Premadasa Stadium.
Brook's Carnage Overshadows Root's Milestone
While Joe Root notched his 20th ODI century in typically elegant fashion, it was Brook's pyrotechnics that dominated proceedings. The England captain, who had lamented the challenging pitches earlier in the series, finally got the high-scoring surface he desired and exploited it mercilessly. His acceleration was particularly remarkable, reaching his half-century from 40 deliveries before requiring just 17 more balls to complete his third ODI hundred.
England's Batting Recovery After Early Setbacks
The tourists' innings began shakily, losing both Ben Duckett and makeshift opener Rehan Ahmed within the first 11 overs with just 40 runs on the board. However, Root combined with Jacob Bethell in a crucial 126-run partnership that stabilised the innings. Bethell's attractive 65 showcased his versatility against pace before he fell attempting to accelerate further.
Brook's entry with less than 19 overs remaining transformed the game's complexion. His signature extra-cover drives, even against the disciplined left-arm spin of Dunith Wellalage, demonstrated exceptional skill and timing. The innings culminated fittingly with another six over cover from the final delivery, propelling England to 357-3 - their highest away total since the 2023 World Cup.
Sri Lanka's Valiant Chase Falls Short
The hosts mounted a spirited response, with Pathum Nissanka racing to a 24-ball half-century and Kusal Mendis striking at a phenomenal rate during the powerplay. Their aggressive approach saw Sri Lanka reach 100 within the first 10 overs, briefly threatening an improbable chase.
However, regular breakthroughs prevented substantial partnerships from developing. The consolation for Sri Lanka came through 23-year-old Pavan Rathnayake, who scored his maiden international century in just his seventh appearance. His determined 103 provided hope until the closing stages, but England's bowlers maintained control throughout the middle overs.
Historic Series Victory for England
The 53-run victory secured England's first ODI series win abroad in three years, and marked the first time in five years that Sri Lanka have lost an ODI series on home soil. Captain Jos Buttler's men become the first away team to achieve this feat in Sri Lanka since 2019, providing a significant boost ahead of future white-ball campaigns.
Brook's innings represented a triumphant return to form following a challenging period that included England's Ashes disappointment. His ability to produce match-winning performances in demanding conditions underscores his growing importance to England's limited-overs setup, with this Colombo masterpiece likely to be remembered as one of the great modern ODI innings played in Asian conditions.
