England secured an 89-run victory over Sri Lanka in the first ODI at Chester-le-Street on Tuesday, with Will Jacks producing a match-winning all-round performance.
Jacks claimed career-best bowling figures of 5-22 and also scored an unbeaten 46, helping England continue their strong recent form in the format.
England Post 265 in Chester-le-Street
After winning the toss and choosing to bat, England were bowled out for 265 in 48.1 overs.
Captain Harry Brook led the scoring with an impressive 67 from 69 balls, while Jacks contributed an unbeaten 46 from 47 deliveries.
Joe Root added 44 from 52 balls before being bowled by Sri Lanka debutant leg-spinner Sachindu Colombage.
The slow surface made stroke-play difficult, with England’s final five wickets adding 69 runs after the hosts had appeared on course for a total around 300.
Colombage Makes Promising Debut
Sri Lanka’s debutant Sachindu Colombage made an encouraging start to his international career, finishing with figures of 3-44 from 10 overs.
He dismissed Root and also removed Jos Buttler, who scored 31.
Seamer Asitha Fernando was Sri Lanka’s other leading wicket-taker, claiming 3-53 in 9.1 overs.
Jacks Destroys Sri Lanka’s Chase
Sri Lanka struggled to build partnerships during their chase and were eventually dismissed for 176 in 37 overs.
Captain Kusal Mendis top-scored with 42 from 60 balls, while Dunith Wellalage added a brisk 45 from 36 deliveries.
However, Jacks put the result beyond doubt with a devastating spell. The all-rounder claimed three wickets in a single over to finish with career-best figures of 5-22.
England Continue Strong ODI Run
The victory extended England’s impressive recent record in ODI cricket. They have now won five of their last six matches in the format.
The run also includes two victories over Sri Lanka in Colombo in January.
England captain Harry Brook praised his team’s ability to adapt to the challenging conditions and highlighted Jacks’ contribution with both bat and ball.
The second match of the three-game ODI series will be played in Leeds on Thursday, with the final fixture scheduled for The Oval on Sunday.
England will look to seal the series, while Sri Lanka will aim to bounce back in the second match.