England stroll to convincing win over Sri Lanka by 51 runs in T20 World Cup Super 8s

England kicked off their Super 8s campaign in style, crushing co-hosts Sri Lanka by 51 runs as a ruthless bowling display made light work of a modest total at the T20 World Cup.

After posting just 146-9, Harry Brook’s side looked vulnerable, but their attack seized control on a testing surface to dismiss Sri Lanka for only 95 and secure a commanding opening victory.

Jofra Archer set the tone by removing danger man Pathum Nissanka along with fellow opener Kamil Mishara, while Will Jacks delivered a decisive spell inside the powerplay.

The all-rounder, who has endured mixed fortunes with the ball during the tournament, struck with consecutive deliveries to send back Kusal Mendis and Pavan Rathnayake before also accounting for Dunith Wellalage. Sri Lanka were reeling at 34-5 and never recovered.

The collapse continued as Kamindu Mendis chipped a simple return catch to Liam Dawson and Dushan Hemantha bizarrely hit his own wicket.

Jacks then played his part in the field too, combining with Tom Banton for a superb relay catch on the boundary to remove captain Dasun Shanaka for 30 – the last recognised batter standing.

While England’s bowling was clinical, questions remain over their batting. Jos Buttler laboured to seven from 14 balls, Jacob Bethell perished attempting an expansive slog, and Banton ran himself out in frustrating fashion.

Phil Salt’s composed 62 proved vital, while Jacks’ 21 further underlined his influential all-round contribution.

England now turn their attention to clashes with Pakistan on Tuesday and New Zealand on Friday. Two victories would seal a semi-final berth, while even one more win could yet be enough to progress.