Sri Lanka achieved a remarkable victory over England in an ODI match on Thursday, completing one of the highest successful run chases in the format’s history. Chasing England’s formidable total of 429-4, Sri Lanka scored 430-8, securing a thrilling two-wicket win. This victory marked the second-highest successful run chase ever recorded in ODI cricket.
England’s captain Harry Brook delivered a standout performance, scoring a record-breaking 202 off 116 balls, becoming the first England player to achieve a double century in men’s ODI cricket. Despite Brook’s monumental effort, his team faced their second consecutive defeat in the ongoing tri-series.
Sri Lanka’s chase began with a shaky start, losing two early wickets. However, a 166-run partnership between Avishka Fernando, who made 97, and Pavan Rathnayake, who scored 130 off 106 balls, steadied the innings. Captain Dasun Shanaka also contributed significantly with a rapid 97 from 50 deliveries. Ultimately, Janith Liyanage played the pivotal role, remaining unbeaten with 61 from 27 balls. With six runs needed from the final two deliveries, Liyanage struck a six over long-off to clinch a memorable victory for Sri Lanka.
In another significant cricketing event, South Africa defeated Australia by an innings and 31 runs in the second Test at St George’s Park in Gqeberha. The victory came despite rain disruptions earlier on the final day, as South Africa managed to dismiss Australia for 295 in their second innings. This result leveled the series at 1-1, with Australia having won the first Test in Durban by 214 runs.
The outcome sets the stage for a decisive third Test in Cape Town, where both South Africa and Australia will vie for series victory and valuable World Test Championship points. The compelling performances from both Sri Lanka and South Africa underscore a day of thrilling achievements in international cricket.