Kusal Mendis struck 121 as Sri Lanka defeated England by 16 runs in the second ODI at Headingley, squaring the series at 1-1 and setting up a decider at The Oval on Sunday, September 27.
It was Sri Lanka’s first white-ball win of the tour, following a 3-0 loss in the T20I series and an 89-run defeat in the opening ODI at Chester-le-Street.
Mendis anchors 321
Mendis shared a 137-run second-wicket stand with Kamindu Mendis, who made 54. Pavan Rathnayake added a brisk 48 from 39 balls and Janith Liyanage chipped in late as Sri Lanka reached 321.
Afterwards Mendis said he was delighted with his hundred and credited his team-mates, singling out Kamindu’s support, a good start from Pathum and a strong middle order. He also spoke of the communication in his partnership with Kamindu and the importance of sticking to the basics.
Wellalage turns the chase
England began their reply well but finished on 305/9. Left-arm spinner Dunith Wellalage took 3/49, removing Ben Duckett for 67 and Tom Banton for 73 in successive overs, then Harry Brook for one, which left England at 157/3. Mendis also praised Charith’s powerplay bowling and the fast bowlers at the death.
Buttler’s hamstring
England’s chase suffered a further blow when captain Jos Buttler, on 67 not out, hurt his left hamstring in the 38th over with the score on 254/4. He batted on but was out for 69, and England could not get home.
Decider at The Oval
The win gives the visitors fresh momentum, though Mendis said the squad must now turn to the final game and do the basics right. Sri Lanka and England meet at The Oval on September 27 with the series level.
