England Seal Dramatic ODI Comeback in Sri Lanka, T20 Series Begins
COLOMBO, 30 January 2026 – England’s cricket team has completed a remarkable turnaround on their tour of Sri Lanka, winning the final two One-Day Internationals to claim the three-match series 2-1. The victory, secured in Colombo on Tuesday, sets a positive tone as the teams now switch formats for a three-match T20 International series, beginning today in Pallekele.
Historic Series Win for McCullum’s England
Under the leadership of captain Harry Brook and coach Brendon McCullum, England ended a significant drought by securing their first away ODI series victory of the McCullum era. After losing the first match in Colombo by 19 runs, England fought back with a tense five-wicket win in the second ODI, inspired by a man-of-the-match performance from Joe Root, before dominating the decider.
Decisive Third ODI: A Batting Masterclass
The series was decided in spectacular fashion at the R. Premadasa Stadium on 27 January. England posted a formidable 357 for 3 from their 50 overs, built on a monumental unbroken fourth-wicket partnership of 242 between Harry Brook (136 not out) and Joe Root (111 not out). In reply, Sri Lanka, despite a valiant 121 from Dineth Rathnayake and 50 from Pathum Nissanka, were bowled out for 304, handing England a 53-run victory and the series.
Key Facts: England’s ODI Series Victory
| Statistic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Series Result | England win 2-1 |
| Key Batsmen | Harry Brook (136* in 3rd ODI), Joe Root (111* in 3rd ODI, 75 & 2-13 in 2nd ODI) |
| Bowling Standouts | Adil Rashid (14 wickets in series), Liam Dawson (12 wickets in series) |
| Significance | England’s first away ODI series win under coach Brendon McCullum |
| Next Fixture | 1st T20 International, 30 January 2026, Pallekele International Stadium |
Focus Shifts to T20 Format
With the ODI leg concluded, attention immediately turns to the shorter format. The first of three T20Is begins today (30 January) in Pallekele. England, buoyed by their ODI success, have named a strong XI featuring the explosive opening pair of Phil Salt and Jos Buttler, with Brook continuing as captain. Sri Lanka will look to leverage their traditional strength in spin bowling on home soil to halt England’s momentum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the ODI series between Sri Lanka and England?
England won the three-match ODI series 2-1, coming from behind after losing the first match.
What were the standout individual performances?
Harry Brook’s unbeaten 136 and Joe Root’s unbeaten 111 in the series-deciding third ODI were pivotal. Root also starred with bat and ball in the second ODI. For Sri Lanka, Dineth Rathnayake scored a century (121) in a losing cause in the final match.
When is the next match?
The next match is the first T20 International, scheduled for 30 January 2026 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.