England started their three-match T20I series strongly, winning by 11 runs against Sri Lanka using the DLS method in a rain-affected opening match on Friday. The game faced multiple interruptions due to weather, but the visitors managed crucial moments well. Sam Curran made headlines with a remarkable hat-trick, while Phil Salt anchored the innings during the chase. This victory gave England a 1–0 lead in the series.
Sri Lanka’s strong start halted by spin
With rain reducing the match to 17 overs per side, England chose to bowl first, a move that seemed questionable at first. Sri Lanka’s openers made a quick impact, with Kusal Mendis scoring 37 off 20 balls and Pathum Nissanka adding 23 off 23 balls. The pair helped their team reach 75/1 in just seven overs, setting the stage for a challenging total despite the shortened format.
The game changed significantly when England introduced spin. Adil Rashid delivered an impressive spell, taking 3 wickets for 19 runs, while Liam Dawson supported him with 2 wickets for 31 runs. Sri Lanka struggled in the middle overs, losing wickets regularly and finding it hard to score boundaries.
Sam Curran’s remarkable over changes the game
The critical moment occurred in the 16th over when Curran, after a costly start, produced a brilliant over. He bowled out Dasun Shanaka, Maheesh Theekshana, and Matheesha Pathirana in three consecutive balls, making him only the second English bowler to achieve a T20I hat-trick. This performance dismantled Sri Lanka’s lower order, leaving them all out for 133 and giving England a solid advantage.
Phil Salt leads England’s response
England began their chase aggressively. Salt set the tone by hitting the first ball for six, easing any tension. However, Eshan Malinga struck back, taking out Jos Buttler and Jacob Bethell, briefly putting the hosts back in the game.
Salt remained steady with a composed 46 off 35 balls, managing the innings well and punishing any loose deliveries. He was joined by Tom Banton, who contributed quickly with 29 off just 15 balls. Their partnership kept England ahead of the required rate.
When rain halted play after 15 overs, England stood at 125/4, well above the DLS target of 114. As no further play was possible, the match was awarded to England.