England beat Sri Lanka by 51 runs in T20 World Cup 2026 match

England secured a comprehensive 51-run victory over Sri Lanka in a crucial Super Eight clash of the ICC T20 World Cup. Chasing a target of 147, the hosts were bowled out for just 95.

Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka won the toss at Pallekele Stadium in Kandy on Sunday and opted to field first. England posted 147 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs.

Sri Lanka’s bowlers kept the pressure on from the outset, restricting the English batting line-up with disciplined spells. However, opener Phil Salt provided the backbone of the innings with a brisk 62 off 40 deliveries. No other batter was able to convert their start into a substantial score.

Jos Buttler was the first to depart for seven with the total on 16. Jacob Bethell (3), Tom Banton (6), captain Harry Brook (14) and Sam Curran (11) all failed to make significant contributions.

For Sri Lanka, Dunith Wellalage claimed three wickets, while Maheesh Theekshana and Dilshan Madushanka took two apiece. Dushmantha Chameera picked up one wicket.

In reply, Sri Lanka’s batting faltered early, losing half the side during the powerplay and never recovering from the collapse.

Sri Lanka and England are placed in Group Two alongside Pakistan national cricket team and New Zealand national cricket team. The group’s opening Super Eight fixture between Pakistan and New Zealand was abandoned due to rain, with both sides awarded one point each.

At the conclusion of the Super Eight stage, the top two teams from each group will progress to the semi-finals, scheduled for 4 and 5 March, before the tournament reaches its decisive phase.