Jos Buttler injury and Kusal Mendis century combined to derail England as Sri Lanka levelled the ODI series with a thrilling 16-run victory at Lord's. The second ODI saw a dramatic turnaround, with Sri Lanka defending 321 and handing England a defeat that sets up a decider at the Oval.
Match Overview: Sri Lanka Level Series
On a beautiful batting surface and a lightning-fast outfield, England appeared on course to chase down 322 with ease. A rapid-fire 143-run opening stand from Ben Duckett and Tom Banton had put the hosts in command. However, Sri Lanka refused to give up, delivering a famous shutout and profiting from an injury to Jos Buttler to win by 16 runs.
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Kusal Mendis Century Sets Foundation
Sri Lanka captain Kusal Mendis led from the front with a sparkling 121 from 100 balls, setting the tone for his team's competitive total. His innings was crucial in giving Sri Lanka a fighting chance, especially after they had lost four consecutive matches on tour.
Key Performances
| Player | Performance |
|---|---|
| Kusal Mendis (SL) | 121 runs from 100 balls |
| Dunith Wellalage (SL) | 3 wickets |
| Ben Duckett (ENG) | Part of 143-run opening stand |
| Tom Banton (ENG) | Part of 143-run opening stand |
| Will Jacks (ENG) | 52 runs |
| Jos Buttler (ENG) | 66 runs (retired hurt, hamstring) |
Jos Buttler Injury Compounds England's Woes
It was agony for Buttler, who had earlier pulled up with a hamstring issue on 66 when the equation was 68 to win off 75 balls. Re-emerging when this became 27 needed off 14, even down, the 36-year-old was unable to run singles, watched Will Jacks hole out for 52, and then eventually perished himself in the final over. His injury not only affected his own game but also disrupted England's chase, as he could not run quick singles.
Impact of Buttler's Injury
- Buttler retired hurt on 66 due to hamstring issue.
- He returned but could not run singles, limiting England's scoring options.
- His dismissal in the final over sealed England's fate.
- He will miss the series decider at the Oval.
Death Bowling and Wellalage's Spell
Dunith Wellalage's three-wicket haul and a fine display of death bowling brought Sri Lanka back into the contest. England stumbled to 305 for nine, falling short by 16 runs. Harry Brook, England's stand-in captain, praised Sri Lanka's execution: "I thought Sri Lanka played exceptionally well, especially the last 10-15 overs."
Series Decider at the Oval
The series now heads to a decider at the Oval on Sunday that Buttler will miss and where Sri Lanka will be buoyant. England will need to regroup quickly and find a way to replace Buttler's contributions both with the bat and behind the stumps.
Key Takeaways
- Kusal Mendis's century and Dunith Wellalage's bowling helped Sri Lanka level the series.
- Jos Buttler's hamstring injury severely hampered England's chase.
- England will be without Buttler for the series decider.
- Sri Lanka ended a four-match losing streak on tour.
FAQ
What injury did Jos Buttler suffer?
Jos Buttler suffered a hamstring injury while batting on 66. He pulled up and had to retire hurt, later returning but unable to run singles.
How many runs did Kusal Mendis score?
Kusal Mendis scored a brilliant 121 runs off 100 balls, setting the foundation for Sri Lanka's total.
When is the series decider?
The series decider will be played at the Oval on Sunday. Jos Buttler will miss the match due to injury.
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