In the final league-stage game of the ODI tri-series hosted by Pakistan, England defeated final-bound Sri Lanka by 55 runs on Thursday at the Gaddafi Stadium thanks to a huge century from Ben Duckett and a four-wicket haul from Liam Dawson.
The Island nation, which will play hosts Pakistan in the ODI tri-series final at the same venue on Saturday, is expected to chase a formidable 387-run total. Despite Pavan Rathnayake’s rapid century, they could reach 331 before being bowled out in 55.1 overs.
Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jordan Cox, and Harry Brook all made notable appearances. Eshan Malinga had a disappointing day, finishing with figures of 1/101 in 10 overs, while Asitha Fernando claimed two wickets. Duckett’s record at this venue added to the significance of his innings.
The left-hander concluded the event at Gaddafi Stadium with two hundreds in as many innings after hitting consecutive hundreds in the tri-series. In an earlier match in the competition on October 22, 2026, England had scored 429 against Sri Lanka, but they were unable to hold that score. At the very least, the consolation victory meant that England did not leave the group stage without a win.
Pavan Rathnayake, who hit 118 off 77 balls and gave the pursuit real energy during the middle overs, was Sri Lanka’s most important batting effort. For the majority of Sri Lanka’s reply, his performance kept them competitive, and while he was at the crease, the mark of 386 appeared to be within reach. But when he tried a sweep shot and was rebuffed by Liam Dawson, the relationship came to an end.
After Rathnayake left, Sri Lanka’s chase took a turn for the worse as they were bowled out for 331, 55 runs short of England’s total. Dawson was the best bowler for England. With outstanding statistics of 4/49 in 10 overs, the left-arm spinner concluded.
