World · Sri Lanka Bureau
Sri Lanka defeats England by 16 runs to level ODI series
Captain Charith Mendis scored 121 to lead Sri Lanka to victory and force a deciding match in the ongoing ODI series against England.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
Sri Lanka secured a 16-run victory over England in the second ODI, with captain Charith Mendis anchoring the hosts' innings with a composed 121 to bring the three-match series level at 1-1.
Mendis' commanding performance with the bat proved decisive as Sri Lanka posted a competitive total, before the home team's bowlers restricted England in the chase. The captain's century demonstrated the experience and composure required to navigate pressure situations against a strong touring side.
The victory sets up a winner-take-all final ODI to determine the series champion. England had claimed the opening match, but Sri Lanka's strong showing in Colombo demonstrated their capability to compete at the highest level of one-day cricket.
The deciding match will be played at a venue to be confirmed, with both teams now level on points heading into the final encounter. Sri Lanka's bowlers will look to carry their momentum into the decider, while England will seek to bounce back and secure a series victory in South Asia.