An outstanding bowling efficiency breathed life into England’s T20 World Cup marketing campaign as Harry Brook’s facet beat co-hosts Sri Lanka by 51 runs of their opening match of the Tremendous 8s section.
England remained unconvincing with the bat in posting 146-9 however their bowlers took full benefit of a difficult floor to knock over their hosts for 95.
Jofra Archer dismissed key batter Pathum Nissanka and fellow opener Kamil Mishara however much more spectacular have been the three wickets for all-rounder Will Jacks contained in the powerplay.
Jacks, who has struggled with the ball at instances on this match, eliminated Kusal Mendis and Pavan Rathnayake in consecutive deliveries and added the scalp of Dunith Wellalage as Sri Lanka crumbled to 34-5 underneath the strain of a chase.
After Kamindu Mendis chipped again a catch to Liam Dawson and Dushan Hemantha hit his personal wicket, Jacks mixed with Tom Banton to finish a fantastic relay catch on the boundary to dismiss Dasun Shanaka, Sri Lanka’s captain and the final recognised batter, for 30.
That England’s batting stays removed from excellent is pushed to a different 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 following highest scorer in a fantastic all-round show, have been essential.
England play Pakistan on Tuesday and New Zealand on Friday of their remaining Tremendous 8s matches.
One win must be sufficient to qualify for the semi-finals.
