England Off to Flying Start as Bowlers Blow Sri Lanka Away

England breathed new life into their T20 World Cup campaign with a 51-run victory over co-hosts Sri Lanka in their opening Super 8 match.

Although they did not look entirely convincing with the bat, England posted 146-9. On a tricky surface, however, their bowlers made full use of the conditions to dismiss Sri Lanka for just 95.

Jofra Archer struck early, removing key batter Pathum Nissanka and fellow opener Kamil Mishara. But it was all-rounder Will Jacks who truly stood out, claiming three wickets inside the powerplay. Having experienced ups and downs with the ball earlier in the tournament, Jacks dismissed Kusal Mendis and Pavan Rathnayake in consecutive deliveries before adding the wicket of Dunith Wellalage. Under the pressure of the chase, Sri Lanka slumped to 34-5.

Kamindu Mendis later chipped a catch to Liam Dawson, while Dushan Hemantha was out hit wicket. Jacks then combined with Tom Banton to complete a brilliant relay catch at the boundary, dismissing Sri Lanka captain and last recognised batter Dasun Shanaka for 30.

England’s batting remains far from perfect, but that concern was overshadowed by the victory. Jos Buttler endured a tough outing, scoring just seven off 14 balls. Jacob Bethell fell to a wild slog, and Tom Banton was run out. However, Phil Salt’s 62 and Jacks’ valuable 21 runs in an impressive all-round display proved crucial.

England will face Pakistan on Tuesday and New Zealand on Friday in their remaining Super 8 fixtures. One win should be enough to secure a place in the semi-finals.