In challenging batting conditions at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Joe Root delivered a masterclass of control and composure to steer England to a vital five-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the second ODI, leveling the three-match series 1–1 and ending a long away ODI drought. Root’s 75 off 90 balls was the backbone of the chase, with valuable support down the order ensuring England crossed the line with 22 balls to spare.
The surface in Colombo was slow and grip-friendly, offering plenty to spinners and demanding patience from batters. Sri Lanka made the most of their home conditions after winning the toss and elected to bat, finishing on 219 all out thanks to steady contributions from Charith Asalanka (45) and Dhananjaya de Silva (40). Their partnership and late-innings hits pushed the total into competitive territory, despite regular breakthroughs by England bowlers led by Adil Rashid (2/34) and Jamie Overton (2/21).
England’s reply began cautiously on the tricky wicket, with early dismissals preventing them from getting into a rhythm. But once Root settled in, he provided the calm stability the chase required. He played with typical elegance — placing the ball cleverly, rotating the strike, and punishing anything loose once he had his eye in. His knock was a blend of technique and timing, helping England navigate the turning ball while keeping the scoreboard moving steadily.
Root’s innings was bolstered by important contributions from his teammates. Ben Duckett (39) provided a solid start, looking fluent against both pace and spin before falling in the middle overs. England captain **Harry Brook chipped in with a patient 42 off 75 balls, pacing his innings well on the slow surface to maintain pressure on the required run rate. Their partnership with Root was vital in building the platform for a controlled finish.
With the target still in sight but not yet secured, England turned to their experienced finishers. **Jos Buttler’s brisk 33 not out off 21 deliveries ensured there would be no late drama, as he struck boundaries at key moments to guide England home with overs to spare. That calm completion highlighted England’s depth and ability to absorb pressure in testing conditions.
Root’s innings was not just about the runs — it was about the context. Coming off a disappointing first ODI loss and on a pitch that demanded patience more than power, his approach demonstrated why he remains one of England’s most reliable ODI batters. The knock kept England’s chase balanced, eased the pressure at precarious moments, and set up a platform for the lower order to capitalize without panic.
This win was significant in several ways. It ended England’s extended poor run in ODIs away from home under their current coaching regime, giving the side much-needed confidence ahead of the final ODI. It also preserved the series, keeping momentum alive as both teams prepare for the series decider in Colombo later this week.
For Sri Lanka, the loss will be a disappointment given the competitive total they posted. Their batters showed glimpses of control and fight, but England’s disciplined bowling and the visitors’ superior tactical response in the chase ultimately made the difference.
In the end, Joe Root’s composed 75 was the defining innings in a game where patience and temperament mattered most. Supported by crucial contributions down the order, his knock helped England navigate a tricky surface and achieve a morale-boosting win — one that keeps their tour and series hopes very much alive.
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