England beat Sri Lanka in rain-hit encounter

England further underlined their status as one of the favourites for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup with a win over Sri Lanka in the opening T20 international of the three-match series at Pallekele on Friday. The visitors secured an 11-run victory via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method in a rain-affected contest.

Sam Curran turned the match on its head with a brilliant hat-trick, as Sri Lanka were bowled out for 133 in 16.2 overs. Opener Phil Salt played a key role with the bat, scoring 46 off 35 balls to help England take a 1–0 lead in the series.

Sri Lanka had made an excellent start, racing to 76 for one in just seven overs. However, the introduction of spin changed the momentum, with leg-spinner Adil Rashid triggering the collapse by claiming three wickets. Rashid was named Player of the Match for his impactful spell.

Curran then wrapped up the Sri Lankan innings with a sensational hat-trick. He first had captain Dasun Shanaka caught at mid-off, followed by Maheesh Theekshana caught at long-on. The left-arm seamer completed his hat-trick by bowling Matheesha Pathirana with a swinging full-length delivery. Jamie Overton later dismissed Wanindu Hasaranga for 14 as Sri Lanka collapsed from 129 for six to 133 all out within the space of five deliveries.

In reply, Phil Salt batted with confidence, while Tom Banton added impetus with a brisk 29 off 15 balls, including three fours and two sixes. Sri Lanka also suffered in the field, dropping two straightforward catches.

England were cruising, needing just nine runs from the final two overs with six wickets in hand, when rain forced play to be abandoned. With England well ahead on the DLS calculations, the visitors were declared the winners. Earlier, rain had reduced the match to 17 overs per side.

The two sides will meet again at the same venue for the second T20I on Sunday, with the series concluding on Tuesday.