Sri Lanka beat England by 19 runs to win the first ODI

Sri Lanka put up a commanding performance in the first ODI against England. They won the match by 19 runs and take a 1-0 lead in the series. It was a dominating performance from the hosts. Sri Lanka scored

271/6 while batting first and in reply, England suffered a big collapse as they were bowled out for 252 and fell short by 19 runs. Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bat first and both the openers were dismissed cheaply. Kusal Mendis did really well as he batted throughout the innings and remained unbeaten on 93. While Dhananjaya De Silva failed on his comeback as he departed for 10 runs.

Captain Charith Asalanka also soon fell as the hosts were in a deep spot of bother. Janith Liyanage formed a very good partnership with Kusal Mendis as the duo put Sri Lanka in a good position. The finish from Sri Lanka was outstanding with Dunith Wellalage who scored 25 runs of just 12 balls. Sri Lanka posted 271 which was a good total.

England lost opener Crawley early but Joe Root and Ben Duckett were outstanding as both batters scored half centuries. Later England suffered a shocking batting collapse to lose the game. England visitors were cruising at 129/2 at the end of 27 overs in their run chase of 272, but then they lost their remaining nine wickets for just 123 runs.

Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell and Jos Buttler were dismissed cheaply and no one could get going. There was a few lusty blows from Overton but England were always behind the game in the last two overs. England were bowled out for 252 and lost the match. Kusal Mendis was named Player of the match.