England dominated the second T20 international in Cardiff, securing a commanding six-wicket win over Sri Lanka to seal the three-match series with a game to spare. Chasing a target of 146, the hosts reached their objective in just 12.1 overs. The chase was spearheaded by Tom Banton, who displayed aggressive form to remain unbeaten on 52 from 24 balls, including four sixes. While Banton provided the explosive finish, Liam Dawson was named player of the match for his pivotal role with the ball, claiming 3 wickets for 32 runs to shift the momentum in England’s favor.
Sri Lanka initially looked set for a significant total after openers Pathum Nissanka and his partner navigated the first five overs without loss to reach 55 runs. However, the innings collapsed after Dawson dismissed two batters in consecutive deliveries during the final over of the powerplay. The visitors eventually struggled to 145 for 9, losing nine wickets for just 90 runs, and managing only 12 runs in their final four overs. Nissanka top-scored with 37 off 21 balls, followed by captain Charith Asalanka with 31 and Wanindu Hasaranga with 27.
Supporting Dawson’s three-wicket haul, Jamie Overton claimed two scalps. Sonny Baker also delivered a highly economical spell, conceding only 15 runs in his four overs and bowling a maiden in the 19th over. England’s response was equally clinical; Jos Buttler and Aneurin Donald set the tone with a 51-run opening partnership in just 4.3 overs. Although both fell within four balls—Buttler for 30 and Donald for 21—the momentum continued as captain Harry Brook contributed a rapid 23 off 8 balls, featuring three sixes, before Banton finished the job.
This performance underscores England’s remarkable consistency in the format. Under head coach Brendon McCullum, the team has won 22 of their last 25 full T20 internationals dating back to last summer, maintaining an 88 percent win rate. This places them ahead of all other full-member nations, with India holding the next highest win rate at 73 percent. The final match of the series is scheduled for Saturday at Old Trafford in Manchester.
