In the must-win game against Sri Lanka, England gave its best and defeated the Lankans by four wickets. With this win, England qualified for the semifinals along with New Zealand. The tournament host, Australia, got knocked out due to a low Net Run Rate.
While batting first, Sri Lanka got a flying start from its openers Kusal Mendis (18) and Pathum Nissanka (67). Both of them made a partnership of 39 runs in just four overs. Even after Mendis got out, Nissanka carried forward the momentum. However, he was the only one who did well with the bat. Especially in the death overs, England’s bowlers came back stronger and didn’t allow the Lankans to score big. As a result, Sri Lanka ended its innings at a modest total of 141/8. Mark Wood (3/26) took three wickets for England.
The English openers Alex Hales (47) and Jos Buttler (30) gave a stunning start to their team in the chase. They made a partnership of 75 runs in just 7.2 overs. But Sri Lanka got back stronger and scalped wickets in quick succession. As a result, England’s score came down from 75/0 to 129/6 in no time. It was Ben Stokes (42*) who remained in the crease till the end and ensured a comprehensive victory for his team. Eventually, England scored 144/6 in 19.4 overs. Lahiru Kumara (2/24), Wanindu Hasaranga (2/23) and Dhananjaya de Silva (2/24) scalped two wickets each.
New Zealand will play its semifinal match against the team which will be in the second position on Group 2’s points table. The match will be held on November 9. England will take on Group 2’s table-topper on November 10 in the second semifinal.
