Sports

England bowlers secure crucial win over Sri Lanka

Feb 23, 2026

Sri Lanka, February 23: A superb bowling performance breathed life into England's T20 World Cup campaign as Harry Brook's side beat co-hosts Sri Lanka by 51 runs in their opening match of the Super 8s phase.
England remained unconvincing with the bat in posting 146-9 but their bowlers took full advantage of a tricky surface to knock over their hosts for 95.
Jofra Archer dismissed key batter Pathum Nissanka and fellow opener Kamil Mishara but even more impressive were the three wickets for all-rounder Will Jacks inside the powerplay.
Jacks, who has struggled with the ball at times in this tournament, removed Kusal Mendis and Pavan Rathnayake in consecutive deliveries and added the scalp of Dunith Wellalage as Sri Lanka crumbled to 34-5 under the pressure of a chase.
After Kamindu Mendis chipped back 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 to dismiss Dasun Shanaka, Sri Lanka's captain and the last recognised batter, for 30.
That England's batting remains far from perfect is pushed to another day. Jos Buttler made a tortured seven from 14 balls, Jacob Bethell fell to a wild slog and Tom Banton ran himself out.
Phil Salt's 62 and 21 from Jacks, who was the next highest scorer in a fine all-round display, were crucial.
England play Pakistan on Tuesday and New Zealand on Friday in their remaining Super 8s matches.
One win should be enough to qualify for the semi-finals.
ScorescColor:> England 146-9 (20 overs): Salt 62 (40), Jacks 21 (14); Wellalage 3-26,
Sri Lanka 95 (16.4 overs): Shanaka 30 (24); Jacks 3-22.
Source: Qatar Tribune

More news

The New-Age AU Credit Card Redefines Everyday Payments in India

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], February 23: India's digital payments landscape has expanded rapidly over the last few years, and credit cards have moved from being occasional-use instruments to becoming part of everyday financial behaviour. Consumers now rely on them not just for high-value purchases but for groceries, fuel, online shopping, entertainment, and recurring monthly payments. This shift has been supported by AU Small Finance Bank, which is making credit cards simpler, more accessible, and more rewarding for day-to-day use. AU Small Finance Bank (AU SFB) is the India's largest Small Finance Bank and the first in over a decade to receive in principle approval to transition into a Universal Bank.

Feb 23, 2026