Harry Brook Hits Unbeaten 114 as England Beat Sri Lanka in First T20I
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
England captain Harry Brook produced a brilliant unbeaten century as England defeated Sri Lanka by 119 runs in the opening T20 International at Southampton on Tuesday.
Brook’s outstanding knock of 114 not out helped England post a massive 254-4 before Sri Lanka were bowled out for 135 in 17.4 overs.
The victory gives England a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series.
Brook and Buttler Power England to 254
Brook and former England captain Jos Buttler dominated the Sri Lankan bowling attack with an explosive partnership.
The pair added 128 runs from just 60 deliveries, with Buttler contributing a rapid 80 while Brook remained unbeaten on 114.
Brook reached his second T20 International century from only 42 balls. His innings included eight fours and six sixes.
The 27-year-old’s century was his first international hundred in 18 innings across all formats, with his previous century coming against Pakistan during the World Cup in February.
His century was also joint-second fastest for England in T20 internationals.
Baker Shines on Hampshire Home Ground
Sri Lanka faced a daunting target of 255 and struggled from the beginning of their chase.
Fast bowler Sonny Baker made an impressive impact on his Hampshire home ground, claiming 3-12 from his four overs.
The performance marked Baker’s first wickets in white-ball international cricket.
Pathum Nissanka was dismissed early after attempting to attack off-spinner Will Jacks, only to find Jamie Overton at mid-on.
Baker then bowled Kamil Mishara before having Lahiru Udara caught following a scoop shot, leaving Sri Lanka at 32-3.
Sri Lanka eventually collapsed for 135, with England completing a convincing victory.
Brook Praises England’s Performance
Brook described England’s display as “near-perfect” and praised his teammates for their approach throughout the match.
He said the team had managed to mentally prepare despite the demanding schedule, following England’s recent Test series against Pakistan.
“An exceptional performance and I am proud of how the boys went about every aspect of the game tonight,” Brook said.
Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka acknowledged that his team had a difficult outing and praised the performances of Brook and Buttler.
He said Sri Lanka had not executed their plans effectively during the match.
England Continue Strong T20 Form
England’s latest performance comes after another impressive partnership between Brook and Buttler against India in July.
The pair had produced a huge 233-run stand during England’s 56-run victory, with Buttler scoring 131 and Brook remaining unbeaten on 95.
England also entered the match with a new addition to their white-ball coaching setup, with former captain Kevin Pietersen joining the team as a special mentor.
The first T20I was played under a white-ball setup still led by Brendon McCullum.
Second T20I in Cardiff
The three-match T20I series will continue in Cardiff on Thursday, with the final match scheduled for Old Trafford on Saturday.
England and Sri Lanka will then face each other in a three-match ODI series.
