Colombo, Feb 22 (NationPress) Sri Lanka showcased a disciplined and strategically savvy bowling effort, limiting England to a modest total of 146/9 during the second Super Eights match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. The spinners initiated the pressure before the pacers effectively sealed the innings.

After being asked to bat first, England struggled to find the rhythm expected from their formidable batting lineup. The initial overs suggested a solid start, but Sri Lanka’s decision to introduce spin early in the Powerplay yielded immediate results.

Left-arm spinner Dunith Wellalage made his mark in the fourth over, dismissing Jos Buttler lbw for just seven runs, as the England captain misjudged a planned reverse hit. This wicket set the tone for a challenging middle period. Maheesh Theekshana further complicated matters for England by taking out Jacob Bethell with his very first ball, resulting in a mistimed slog that was easily caught at backward point.

At 37/2 by the end of the Powerplay, England recorded their lowest score in this phase of the tournament and faced increasing pressure. Phil Salt attempted to fight back but could only offer temporary stability. The opener hit two sixes and six boundaries during his 40-ball knock of 62, though his innings lacked the usual fluidity as wickets continued to fall around him.

Wellalage returned to claim Buttler and later trapped Harry Brook lbw for 14, with ball-tracking confirming the umpire’s decision. England’s captain tried to inject some momentum with a boundary and quick running, but Sri Lanka’s spin trio of Wellalage (3/26), Theekshana (2/21), and Dushan Hemantha consistently varied their pace and lengths to stifle any acceleration.

A brilliant direct hit from Dasun Shanaka to run out Tom Banton further impeded England’s progress, showcasing Sri Lanka’s commitment in the field. Salt, visibly fatigued in the humid conditions, eventually fell for 62 off 40 balls, caught at long-off against Wellalage after struggling to maintain his timing.

The closing overs saw a brief resurgence from England, with Will Jacks hitting a couple of boundaries and Jamie Overton launching Dushmantha Chameera for an 82-meter six in the final over. However, Dilshan Madushanka struck twice in the 19th over, sending Jacks and Jofra Archer back to the pavilion in consecutive deliveries, ensuring England couldn’t surpass the 150-run mark.

Chameera finished the innings strongly with a series of yorkers and slower balls, leaving England at 146/9, a total that seemed significantly below par on a pitch offering grip without excessive turn.

Sri Lanka’s collective bowling effort, complemented by sharp fielding and tactical variations, left England with a lot to consider as they prepared for their chase.

Brief Scores: England 146/9 in 20 overs (Phil Salt 62, Will Jacks 21; Dunith Wellalage 3-26, Maheesh Theekshana 2-21) against Sri Lanka