England crush Sri Lanka to top T20 world rankings

Sri Lanka 124 all out (18.5 overs): Nissanka 36 (24), K Mendis 35 (28); Baker 2-17, Archer 2-23, Jacks 2-31

England steamrollered Sri Lanka in the third T20 to complete a 3-0 series clean sweep and return to number one in the world rankings.

Watched by new Test coach Stephen Fleming, England once again outclassed the tourists to conclude a one-sided series played on the fringe of autumn.

England's pace bowlers were outstanding in dismissing Sri Lanka for a paltry 124, then the home side chased the target in 9.4 overs.

Jamie Overton conceded only 15 runs in his four overs, including taking a wicket. Sonny Baker's improvement continued with 2-17 and Jofra Archer recovered from an expensive start to return 2-23.

England's fielding was sharp, best demonstrated by Liam Dawson's direct hit to run out Eshan Malinga.

The target was never likely to pose a challenge to an England batting line-up that remains powerful despite Phil Salt and Jacob Bethell being absent injured.

Though opener Aneurin Donald was out for 13, Jos Buttler and Harry Brook strolled the pursuit with a second-wicket stand of 85.

Brook was run out for 33, leaving Buttler to wrap it up with a six that left him unbeaten on 61.

The victory by eight wickets was concluded with 62 balls to spare - the most for England in a home T20 international.

The success was England's 23rd win in 26 completed T20s since Brook took charge in the summer of 2024. They have reclaimed their number one ranking from India.

The pity for this group is a rare lengthy wait until the next global T20 tournament. The next men's T20 World Cup is not until 2028, the same year T20 cricket makes its debut in the Olympics.

England are instead building towards a 50-over World Cup in southern Africa in the autumn of 2027. Three one-day internationals against the Sri Lankans begin in Durham on Tuesday.

A feature of England's success in this format has been captain Brook's heavy use of spin bowling. On this occasion the spinners took a backseat – Adil Rashid and Dawson sent down only four overs between them.