Sri Lanka level ODI series with dramatic 16-run victory over England

Sri Lanka's cricket team pulled off a dramatic upset at Headingley in Leeds, England, to restore parity in their three-match one-day International series. The visitors' 16-run victory on Thursday represents a significant turnaround after England took the opening match, with the series now locked at 1-1 ahead of the final fixture.

The win came despite England mounting a strong challenge in the chase, spearheaded by Jos Buttler, who continued to contribute despite carrying an injury into the match. Buttler's determination highlighted England's fighting spirit, yet it ultimately proved insufficient to overcome Sri Lanka's total and the visitors' disciplined bowling performance.

The result underscores the competitive nature of the bilateral series and sets up a decisive encounter to determine the winner. Both teams will view the remaining match as crucial, with England seeking to regain their advantage and Sri Lanka hoping to build momentum from their Headingley success.

The third and final one-day International will provide the concluding chapter to what has developed into a tightly contested series between the two sides.