New Delhi, Oct 22 (NVI): Sri Lanka pulled off a sensational two-wicket victory over England after completing a record-breaking chase of 430 runs, overshadowing Harry Brook’s historic double century in a remarkable one-day international encounter in the ongoing tri-nation series.
Chasing England’s imposing total of 429 for four, Sri Lanka reached 430 for eight in 49.5 overs, sealing victory on the fifth ball of the final over when Janith Liyanage smashed Josh Tongue for a match-winning six over long-off at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
Brook had earlier powered England to a formidable total with a breathtaking 202 off just 116 balls, becoming the first English batter to score a double century in men’s ODIs. He reached the milestone in 114 deliveries, breaking the previous record of 117 balls held by India’s Shubman Gill.
Brook’s innings was studded with 21 fours and 10 sixes, while Joe Root contributed 69 runs and Will Jacks remained unbeaten on 66 as England posted their highest ODI total on Pakistani soil.
However, Sri Lanka responded with a determined batting display to pull off the extraordinary chase. Avishka Fernando set the tone with an aggressive 97, while Pavan Rathnayake struck a commanding 130 to keep the visitors in contention.
Dasun Shanaka then turned the contest on its head with a blistering 97 off just 50 deliveries, putting Sri Lanka within touching distance of a memorable victory.
The chase went down to the wire as Sri Lanka lost two wickets in the final over, leaving the outcome hanging in the balance. Liyanage, however, held his nerve under pressure and struck the decisive six to seal a remarkable win.
Sri Lanka’s victory capped an extraordinary contest in which Brook’s record-breaking individual effort was ultimately overshadowed by the visitors’ historic run chase.—(NVI)
