England won by 89 runs against Sri Lanka in the opening ODI of the Sri Lanka tour of England 2026, with Player of the Match Will Jacks producing a decisive five-wicket haul to complete the defence of 265. Harry Brook’s 67 led England’s batting before Sri Lanka were dismissed for 176, giving the hosts a 1-0 series lead.

England’s 265 gave their bowlers a substantial target to defend, and Jacks made sure Sri Lanka’s chase never gained the momentum required. His five wickets were the defining performance of the match, while Jamie Overton added 2 wickets and Josh Tongue took 1 as England closed out an emphatic victory.

Brook leads England’s 265

Brook top-scored with 67, providing the largest contribution in England’s innings. Jacks backed up his match-winning bowling display with 46 runs, while Joe Root made 44 as England assembled a total that proved well beyond Sri Lanka’s reach.

Sri Lanka’s bowlers had moments of success, led by Sachindu Colombage’s 3/44 from 10 overs and Asitha Fernando’s 3/50 from 8 overs. Dunith Wellalage returned 1/51 from 8.5 overs, Pathum Chameera took 1/43 from 8 overs, while Dilshan Madushanka went wicketless for 34 from 8 overs. But England’s principal batters had supplied enough runs for the home side to dictate the contest.

Jacks breaks Sri Lanka’s chase

Sri Lanka were unable to construct the sustained partnerships needed in pursuit. Dunith Wellalage was their leading scorer with 45, Kusal Mendis made 42 and Pathum Nissanka contributed 27, but the innings ended at 176.

Jacks’ five-for turned the chase decisively England’s way, removing any prospect of a late recovery. Overton’s two wickets and Tongue’s solitary strike supplied effective support as Sri Lanka fell 89 runs short.

England extend their white-ball momentum

The result gives England a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series and extends their successful start to the tour. England had already swept the preceding T20I series: they won the first T20I by 119 runs, the second by six wickets with 47 balls remaining, and the third by eight wickets with 62 balls remaining.

The second ODI is scheduled for Thursday, September 24, with a final ODI to follow on Sunday, September 27. Sri Lanka must now respond immediately to keep the ODI series alive, while England can seal the series in the next match.

Key performers

  • Harry Brook: 67 runs for England.
  • Will Jacks: 46 runs and 5 wickets for England; Player of the Match.
  • Joe Root: 44 runs for England.
  • Sachindu Colombage: 3/44 from 10 overs for Sri Lanka.
  • Asitha Fernando: 3/50 from 8 overs for Sri Lanka.
  • Dunith Wellalage: 45 runs and 1/51 from 8.5 overs for Sri Lanka.
  • Kusal Mendis: 42 runs for Sri Lanka.

NerdSports Stat: Will Jacks was one of only two England players to feature among the top three run-scorers and also lead the wicket-takers, following his 46 runs with a five-wicket haul.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who won the match between England and Sri Lanka?

England won the match by 89 runs.

Who was the Player of the Match?

Will Jacks was named Player of the Match for scoring 46 runs and taking 5 wickets.

What is the series standing after this match?

England lead the three-match ODI series 1-0 after winning the opening ODI by 89 runs.

Who was the top scorer in this match?

Harry Brook top-scored with 67 runs.

When is the next match in the series?

The next ODI between England and Sri Lanka is on Thursday, September 24, 2026.