Full Breakdown
England clinch series with Tom Banton’s maiden ODI century at The Oval
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Decisive third ODI
On September 27, 2026, England won the toss and elected to bat first in the series-deciding third One-Day International at The Oval, London. The hosts posted 355/7 in their 50-over innings, anchored by Tom Banton’s maiden ODI hundred (126 off 105 balls, 16 fours, 5 sixes). Harry Brook contributed 77 off 66 balls and Jordan Cox added 76 off 52 balls, propelling England to a target of 356.
Sri Lanka’s chase collapsed; they were bowled out for 132 in 29.1 overs. Liam Dawson led England’s bowling with figures of 3/26, while Gus Atkinson took 2/26. England secured victory by 223 runs, sealing the three-match series 2-1.
Series background
The ODI series was tied 1-1 after England’s 89-run win in the opening match at Chester-le-Street and Sri Lanka’s 16-run triumph at Headingley. The second game featured a standout 121-run innings by Sri Lankan captain Kusal Mendis and a three-wicket haul by all-rounder Dunith Wellalage. England entered the decider without regular wicket-keeper Jos Buttler, who was ruled out with a hamstring strain, prompting Jordan Cox to assume keeping duties. Earlier in July, head coach Brendon McCullum had his responsibilities reduced to half-time, a change that preceded the team’s strong white-ball form.
Key performances & statistics
- Tom Banton – 126 runs (105 balls), 16 fours, 5 sixes; maiden ODI century, achieved in his 10th ODI.
- Harry Brook (captain) – 77 runs (66 balls), 9 fours, 2 sixes; also the leading run-maker for England.
- Jordan Cox – 76 runs (52 balls), 6 fours, 2 sixes; his first ODI fifty.
- Will Jacks – 25 runs (21 balls) and a tight spell of 1/8.
- Liam Dawson – 3 wickets for 26 runs in 8 overs (economy 3.25).
- Gus Atkinson – 2 wickets for 26 runs.
For Sri Lanka, the highest score was Kusal Mendis’s 35 runs (26 balls, 3 sixes). Early wickets fell at 1 run (Pathum Nissanka) and 12 runs (Kamindu Mendis), leaving the side 53/3 after nine overs. The middle order could not recover, and the team was 82/6 by the 15th over.
Official statements & responses
England’s captain Harry Brook described the win as “near-perfect,” emphasizing the collective contribution of the squad and the adaptability required across varying conditions. He also expressed confidence in the team’s depth, noting that multiple players can step into roles effectively.
Sri Lankan captain Kusal Mendis acknowledged the defeat, stating that the side “made too many mistakes” both with the bat and in the field.
England coach Brendon McCullum praised Brook’s leadership, highlighting the captain’s ability to guide the side through a turbulent summer and maintain a winning trajectory.
Verbatim quotes
- “Having not played too much 50-over cricket, you forget how long you have got to bat,” — Tom Banton
On-the-ground reports
A notable incident involved Jordan Cox removing the bails before a run-out attempt on Pavan Rathnayake. After a brief discussion, third umpire Adrian Holdstock upheld the dismissal, confirming it under Law 29.2.
What’s next
Following the series win, England will embark on a six-week break before beginning a white-ball tour of Australia. Sri Lanka will look to regroup after the heavy loss, with no immediate series scheduled in the provided sources.