English produced a dominant all-round performance to defeat Sri Lanka by 223 runs in the third ODI at The Oval on September 27, 2026, clinching the three-match series 2-1. Tom Banton enjoyed a strong maiden ODI century as England secured a big total before their bowlers did the job.
Tom Banton leads England's Batting Charge.
England won the toss and elected to bat first in the series decider. When Ben Duckett was dismissed early, Tom Banton took charge of the innings.
Banton contributed a fantastic 126 off 105 balls and hit boundaries all over the ground. It was his first ODI century for England and provided the foundation for a big total.
Captain Harry Brook also played an important innings and hit 77 off 66 balls. Banton and Brook made a crucial 150-run partnership for the third wicket and Sri Lanka was under pressure.
Jordan Cox then added further momentum with a quick 76 from 52 balls, helping England finish on 355/7 in 50 overs.
WHAT A MOMENT.
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) September 27, 2026
Tom Banton makes his first England century 🔥 pic.twitter.com/7hofUo3O2U
Sri Lanka collapse under pressure
Sri Lanka, chasing 356 for victory, almost immediately failed. Pathum Nissanka was out for just one run, Sonny Baker taking his first ODI wicket.
Then Gus Atkinson added to Sri Lanka's problems by removing Kamindu Mendis and captain Kusal Mendis. Sri Lanka slipped to 82/6, leaving the visitors with little chance of completing the chase.
Liam Dawson was particularly effective with the ball, taking 3/17, while Gus Atkinson took 2/26. England’s bowling attack continued to get wickets until Sri Lanka were finally dismissed for just 132 in 29.1 overs.
England Seal the Series in Style
The 223-run victory was England’s biggest ODI win over Sri Lanka by runs, surpassing their 128-run victory in Perth in 1999. The result also gave Harry Brook's team a 2-1 series win after Sri Lanka had leveled the contest by winning the second ODI by 16 runs at Headingley.
The series final also gave England a good finish to their home white-ball campaign. Banton’s century, Brook’s leadership and an impressive bowling display combined to give the hosts a convincing victory.
