Sri Lanka Achieves Historic ODI Chase Against England

In a thrilling ODI match, Sri Lanka achieved a remarkable 430-run chase against England, marking their highest-ever ODI chase. Captain Kusal Mendis praised his team's character and belief, while Harry Brook made history with a double century. The match featured outstanding performances from several players, including Pavan Rathnayake and Avishka Fernando. Discover how Sri Lanka turned the game around and secured a memorable victory in this exciting encounter.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 23, 2026, 00:19 IST

Sri Lanka's Remarkable ODI Victory

Rawalpindi, October 22 – After an extraordinary 430-run chase against England, Sri Lankan captain Kusal Mendis praised his team's resilience and confidence, expressing his enjoyment of the chase as a leader.

Following a record-setting double century by English captain Harry Brook, Sri Lankan batsmen elevated their performance, achieving their highest-ever ODI chase of 430 runs, marking only the second-highest chase in ODI history. Contributions from Pavan Rathnayake, along with explosive innings from Avishka Fernando, Dasun Shanaka, and Janith Liyanage, matched Brook's historic achievement, leading to England's second defeat in the ongoing tri-series that also includes Pakistan.

In his post-match comments, Kusal stated, "We executed our chase exceptionally well today, and I relished the experience as captain. The coach and I advised the batsmen to approach the initial overs with caution. We decided to send Dasun in earlier, and everyone displayed remarkable character. I am thrilled as a captain. The belief in our ability to achieve this was evident. We consistently emphasize character in our team discussions, proving we can chase any target."

In the match, Sri Lanka opted to field first, allowing England to establish a 74-run opening partnership between Tom Banton (50 runs off 51 balls, including nine fours) and Ben Duckett (29 runs off 39 balls, with two fours). After their dismissals, England found themselves at 85/2. However, a significant 159-run partnership between Brook and Joe Root (69 runs off 66 balls, with eight fours) steadied the innings.

Root made history by becoming the first English player to surpass 8,000 ODI runs, now totaling 8,005 runs in 197 matches and 186 innings, averaging 50.66 with 20 centuries and 49 fifties, and a top score of 166*.

England concluded their innings at 429/4, bolstered by a half-century from Will Jacks (66* off 30 balls, with eight fours and three sixes) and Brook's remarkable double century (202 runs off 116 balls, featuring 21 fours and 10 sixes).

For Sri Lanka, Dunith Wellalage was the standout bowler, taking 2 wickets for 56 runs, while Eshan Malinga (0/91) and Dilshan Madushanka (0/89) struggled during their spells. Dasun Shanaka also faced challenges, conceding 74 runs in six overs.

During the chase, Sri Lanka faced early setbacks, finding themselves at 24/2 after losing key players Kamindu Mendis (18) and captain Kusal Mendis (0). Avishka Fernando (97 runs off 83 balls, with 12 fours and two sixes) initiated a calculated counter-attack alongside Pavan Rathnayake, forming a crucial 166-run partnership for the third wicket.

Pavan delivered a career-best performance with 130 runs off 106 balls, including 15 fours and three sixes, maintaining hope with a 133-run partnership with the aggressive Dasun Shanaka (97 runs off 50 balls, with six fours and eight sixes).

When Shanaka was dismissed in the 44th over, Sri Lanka still required 67 runs in six overs. Janith Liyanage (61* off 27 balls, with seven fours and three sixes) executed a remarkable finish, supported by the lower order, despite Josh Tongue (3/79) posing a threat with consecutive wickets in the final over.

Sam Curran (2/103) struggled throughout his nine-over spell.