Root and Brook Centuries Propel England to ODI Series Win Over Sri Lanka
England secured a 2-1 one-day international (ODI) series victory over Sri Lanka in Colombo on Tuesday, powered by dazzling centuries from Joe Root and Harry Brook. The tourists won the decider by 53 runs after posting a commanding total of 357-3 in the third ODI, sealing the series in emphatic fashion.
Choosing to bat first, England recovered from early setbacks as Root steadied the innings with a composed unbeaten 111 off 108 balls — his 20th ODI century — including elegant drives and deft placement against spin bowling. Jacob Bethell also made a valuable contribution with a steady 65 to set the platform for a big total.
Captain Harry Brook then took the innings into overdrive, smashing a career-best unbeaten 136 off just 66 deliveries, featuring 11 fours and nine sixes. Brook’s explosive batting turned a competitive score into a mammoth one and helped forge an unbroken 191-run partnership with Root.
In reply, Sri Lanka showed early intent, but were eventually bowled out for 304 with a spirited century from Pavan Rathnayake going in vain. The hosts couldn’t sustain the chase as England’s varied bowling attack applied pressure at key stages, ensuring the visitors maintained control.
England’s victory marks their first overseas ODI series win in nearly three years and ends Sri Lanka’s long unbeaten run in home 50-over contests. It also boosts their confidence as they look ahead to upcoming white-ball fixtures and World Cup qualifying concerns.
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