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Pallekele (Sri Lanka), January 31 (ANI):
England secured an 11-run victory over Sri Lanka via the DLS method in the rain-affected first T20I at Pallekele. As a result, the visitors took a 1–0 lead in the three-match series.
The win was shaped by a brilliant bowling effort from Adil Rashid and a historic hat-trick by Sam Curran.
After England captain Harry Brook won the toss and chose to field, rain reduced the match to 17 overs per side. Meanwhile, England’s bowlers took advantage of the damp conditions.
Adil Rashid then took control in the middle overs. In particular, he finished with figures of 3/19 in four overs and broke Sri Lanka’s momentum.
Sam Curran Creates History
However, the biggest moment of the innings came from Sam Curran. He became only the second English bowler, after Chris Jordan, to take a T20I hat-trick.
Curran dismissed Dasun Shanaka, Maheesh Theekshana, and Matheesha Pathirana on consecutive deliveries.
As a result, Sri Lanka collapsed and were bowled out for 133 in 16.2 overs. Despite this, Kusal Mendis provided resistance with a quick 37 off 20 balls.
England Stay Ahead in Chase
England began their chase positively. Initially, opener Phil Salt scored a steady 46 off 35 balls.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka fought back through Eshan Malinga, who removed Jos Buttler and Jacob Bethell in quick succession.
However, Tom Banton shifted the momentum again. He struck 29 off 15 balls to push England ahead.
Later, rain forced another interruption after 15 overs. At that point, England were 125/4. Consequently, officials applied the DLS method and awarded England the match, with the par score set at 114.
Rashid Named Player of the Match
Although Sam Curran claimed a hat-trick, Adil Rashid earned the Player of the Match award for his decisive spell.
With the opener secured, England will now aim to clinch the series when they face Sri Lanka in the second T20I on February 1.gh opener Phil Salt, who scored 46 off 35 balls. He struck three fours and two sixes.
Sri Lanka briefly fought back as Eshan Malinga removed Jos Buttler and Jacob Bethell in quick succession.
However, Tom Banton provided late momentum with a quick 29 off 15 balls, including three boundaries and two sixes.
Rain returned after 15 overs with England at 125/4. The DLS par score stood at 114, prompting officials to call off the match and award England the win.
Rashid Named Player of the Match
Despite Sam Curran’s hat-trick, Adil Rashid was named Player of the Match for his outstanding spell of 3/19.
With the series opener secured, England will aim to clinch the three-match T20I series when they face Sri Lanka in the second match on February 1.
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