England’s white-ball resurgence finally found its footing in the second ODI, as a tactical shift toward spin bowling proved the difference-maker. Facing a Sri Lankan side that typically thrives on turning tracks, the English attack flipped the script. By utilizing clever variations and tight lines, they managed to keep the hosts in check on a surface that seemed to favor the bowlers from the very first over.
Adil Rashid was the architect of the first-half squeeze. On a pitch that offered sharp turn, Rashid demonstrated why he remains one of the premier leg-spinners in the world. His ability to find grip where others struggled prevented the Sri Lankan middle order from ever finding their rhythm, eventually restricting the home side to a modest total of 219.
The chase, however, was far from a walk in the park. England’s top order faced early pressure, navigating a “snake pit” of a pitch that demanded extreme focus. It was Joe Root who stepped into the breach, playing a classic anchoring role. His 75 was a clinic in playing spin, using soft hands and nimble footwork to rotate the strike while the boundaries were hard to come by.
Despite a brief moment of anxiety toward the end of the innings, the veteran presence of Jos Buttler kept the nerves at bay. Buttler’s composure allowed the younger hitters to play their natural game without fear of a total collapse. It was a vital display of leadership in a high-pressure environment where one mistake could have derailed the entire series.
The victory was sealed by Will Jacks, who showed maturity beyond his years to hit the winning runs. This win not only levels the series but marks a significant milestone: the first overseas ODI victory for England under their revised leadership structure. With the series decider looming, the squad now carries a much-needed wave of momentum.