T20 World Cup: England bowlers complete victory over Sri Lanka

A superb bowling performance breathed life into England’s T20 World Cup campaign as Harry Brook’s team beat hosts Sri Lanka by 51 runs in the opening match of the Super 8s stage.

England continued to be convincing with the bat, posting 146-9, but their bowlers took full advantage of the difficult surface to bowl the hosts out for 95.

Jofra Archer dismissed key batsman Pathum Nissanka and fellow opener Kamil Mishara but even more impressive were the three wickets of all-rounder Will Jacks in the powerplay.

The Jacks, who have struggled with the ball at times in this tournament, dismissed Kusal Mendis and Pavan Rathnayake in successive overs, while also adding the scalp of Dunith Wellalage as Sri Lanka fell to 34-5 under chasing pressure.

After Kamindu Mendis took a catch to Liam Dawson and Dushan Hemantha hit his own wicket, Jacks combined with Tom Banton to complete a fine relay catch on the boundary and dismiss Sri Lanka’s captain and recognized batsman Dasun Shanaka for 30.

England’s batting being far from perfect was postponed for another day. Jos Buttler bowled a tough seven off 14 balls, Jacob Bethell made a wild tackle and Tom Banton got himself out.

Scores of 62 and 21 from Phil Salt were crucial from Jacks, who was the next highest scorer in an all-round display.

England will face Pakistan on Tuesday and New Zealand on Friday in the remaining matches of the Super 8s.

Two wins guarantee a place in the semi-finals. One may be enough.