England bounce back with 51-run win over Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup Super 8s

By SABC Sport
22nd February 2026

England's T20 World Cup campaign got a much-needed boost as Harry Brook's side defeated co-hosts Sri Lanka by 51 runs in their opening Super 8s match, maintaining their perfect record against the island nation in recent encounters.

England's T20 World Cup campaign got a much-needed boost as Harry Brook's side defeated co-hosts Sri Lanka by 51 runs in their opening Super 8s match, maintaining their perfect record against the island nation in recent encounters.

After being inserted, England's batting offered little comfort. Jos Buttler struggled once again, making just seven from 14 balls before being trapped lbw, while Jacob Bethell fell to an ill-advised swing and Tom Banton ran himself out. Phil Salt stood tall with 62 off 40 balls, supported by 21 from lower-order all-rounder Will Jacks, guiding England to a modest 146-9 on a tricky, slow pitch.

Sri Lanka's reply quickly unravelled. The home side were reduced to 34-5 in the powerplay, with Jacks claiming a remarkable three wickets, including two in consecutive deliveries. Jofra Archer provided early breakthroughs, dismissing in-form opener Pathum Nissanka and fellow opener Kamil Mishara. Archer's pace and Jacks' spin combined to put Sri Lanka on the back foot from the outset.

The collapse continued as Dunith Wellalage hit his stumps, Dushan Hemantha was out hit wicket, and captain Dasun Shanaka was dismissed for 30 in a spectacular relay catch on the boundary by Jacks and Banton. Left-arm spinner Wellalage and Maheesh Theekshana had brief moments of resistance, but Sri Lanka were skittled for 95 in 16.4 overs.England's win not only revives their shaky campaign - they had lost to West Indies and been pushed to the brink by Nepal and Italy in the group stage - but also sends them to the top of Group 2. Their next Super 8s fixtures are against Pakistan on Tuesday in Pallekele and New Zealand on Friday in Colombo. Two wins would secure a semi-final berth, while even one may suffice depending on other results.

Will Jacks was named Player of the Match for his all-round performance, highlighting the impact of England's gamble of bringing him on early in the innings. Meanwhile, Brook's leadership and tactical use of both Archer and Jacks showcased the balance in a team still searching for consistency with the bat.