England extend unbeaten run against Sri Lanka as Brook expresses full faith in Buttler’s return to form

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England began their Super Eights campaign in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup with a commanding 51-run victory over Sri Lanka national cricket team at Pallekele, but concerns around their top-order batting—particularly the form of captain Jos Buttler—continue to linger. Vice-captain Harry Brook, who celebrated his 27th birthday on match day, described the win as a “beautiful birthday present” and strongly backed his skipper to deliver when it matters most.

The victory marked England’s 12th consecutive T20I win over Sri Lanka and propelled them to the top of Group 2 after the opening round of Super Eight fixtures, following the washout between New Zealand national cricket team and Pakistan national cricket team in Colombo. However, England’s total of 146 for 9 at the halfway stage appeared under-par on a sluggish surface that made strokeplay difficult.

Buttler’s lean patch continues despite team success

Buttler’s struggles with the bat persisted as he managed just 7 off 14 balls, falling lbw attempting a reverse sweep. With only 53 runs in four innings during the group stage, questions are being raised about the 35-year-old’s form, especially following underwhelming performances at the 2023 ODI World Cup and the previous Champions Trophy.

Brook, however, dismissed any concerns. “No concern at all,” he insisted. “He’s arguably the best white-ball player to have ever played the game. He’s just lacking a little bit of confidence at the minute. I’d rather him start the competition like this and finish with a flourish.”

Brook believes Buttler’s explosive best will resurface once England encounter a batting-friendly pitch that suits his power-hitting style.

Salt anchors innings as spin attack seals dominant win

While the much-hyped Buttler-Salt opening partnership misfired again, Phil Salt provided much-needed stability with a composed 62 off 40 balls. Unlike his typically aggressive starts, Salt adjusted intelligently to the slow conditions, batting through the powerplay for the first time in the tournament.

England’s familiarity with Sri Lankan conditions—gained during last month’s bilateral series—proved decisive. Their spin-heavy strategy paid off handsomely, with Will Jacks producing 3 for 22 in four overs after opening the bowling. England bundled Sri Lanka out for just 95, comfortably defending what had earlier seemed a below-par total.

Brook acknowledged the team’s tactical clarity: varying pace rather than line was key on a surface offering little assistance beyond sluggish bounce. The disciplined bowling performance included sharp catches and controlled fielding, reflecting England’s adaptability.

Archer confident as England eye tournament momentum

Jofra Archer struck early in the powerplay, removing the dangerous Pathum Nissanka for 9. Nissanka had previously scored a match-winning century at the same venue, but Archer’s smart adjustment to his line prevented a repeat threat.

Archer admitted England are not yet at their peak but believes momentum is building. He credited coach Brendon McCullum for instilling clarity and confidence within the squad, especially after tight group-stage wins over emerging teams.

Despite an emphatic result, England know their batting unit must sharpen up—particularly in the powerplay. As Brook summed up, once Buttler and Salt rediscover their full attacking rhythm, England will once again become one of the most formidable white-ball sides in world cricket.

With tougher Super Eight fixtures ahead, England’s blend of experience, adaptability, and belief in their match-winners could prove decisive in their quest for T20 World Cup glory.