England won by six wickets with 47 balls remaining against Sri Lanka in the second T20I, with Tom Banton’s 52 powering a swift chase of 146 and Liam Dawson taking three wickets in a Player-of-the-Match display. England’s 146/4 in 12.1 overs overhauled Sri Lanka’s 145/9 and secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match T20 series.

The hosts had already taken the opening T20I by 119 runs, and they followed that emphatic success with an even more clinical pursuit on Thursday. Sri Lanka posted 145/9 from their 20 overs, with Pathum Nissanka making 37, Charith Asalanka contributing 31 and Wanindu Hasaranga adding 27, but England kept the visitors from building a total beyond their reach.

Dawson was central to that control, claiming three wickets to earn the Player of the Match award. Jamie Overton and Jofra Archer each took two wickets as England ensured Sri Lanka lost wickets regularly across the innings.

Banton makes light work of the chase

Banton then set the tempo in England’s reply with 52 runs, the innings that turned a potentially awkward target into a one-sided finish. Jos Buttler supplied 30 and Harry Brook made 23 as England reached 146/4 with 47 balls unused.

Tharindu Ratnayake, Eshan Malinga and Dushmantha Chameera took a wicket apiece for Sri Lanka, but England’s top order maintained the required momentum despite losing four wickets. The 12.1-over finish underlined the gulf between the sides across the opening two T20Is.

Key performers

  • Tom Banton: 52 runs for England in a chase completed with 47 balls remaining.
  • Liam Dawson: three wickets for England and named Player of the Match.
  • Jos Buttler: 30 runs for England.
  • Harry Brook: 23 runs for England.
  • Pathum Nissanka: 37 runs for Sri Lanka.
  • Charith Asalanka: 31 runs for Sri Lanka.
  • Wanindu Hasaranga: 27 runs for Sri Lanka.
  • Jamie Overton and Jofra Archer: two wickets each for England.

NerdSports Stat: England have won the first two T20Is by a combined 125 runs in terms of victory margin: 119 runs in the opener and six wickets with 47 balls remaining in the second match.

Series situation

England’s victory decides the T20 leg of the Sri Lanka tour of England 2026, giving them a 2-0 lead with one match left. The final T20I is scheduled for Saturday, September 19, before the teams move into a three-match ODI series on September 22, 24 and 27.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who won the match between England and Sri Lanka?

England won the match by six wickets with 47 balls remaining.

Who was the Player of the Match?

Liam Dawson was named Player of the Match for taking three wickets.

What is the series standing after this match?

England lead the three-match T20 series 2-0, an unassailable lead with one match remaining.

Who was the top scorer in this match?

Tom Banton top-scored with 52 runs.

When is the next match in the series?

The next match is the final T20 between England and Sri Lanka on Saturday, September 19.