Joe Root produced a defining performance to help England level the three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka with a convincing win in the second game at Colombo. In a contest played on a slow, turning pitch that challenged both batters and bowlers, Root’s calm, authoritative innings and tidy contributions with the ball and in the field earned him the Player of the Match award and put England back on level terms.

Sri Lanka set a modest target on testing pitch

Electing to bat first at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Sri Lanka managed a score of 219 in 49.3 overs. The hosts struggled to build consistent partnerships on a surface that offered grip and variation, with only a couple of batters, Charith Asalanka (45) and Dhananjaya de Silva (40), making notable contributions. England’s bowlers relied heavily on spin, using number of bowlers to maintain pressure and ausually keep Sri Lanka’s scoring rate in check.

Root anchors England’s chase under pressure

Chasing 220 on a tricky wicket demanded measured batting and disciplined shot selection. Joe Root delivered exactly that, scoring a crucial 75 runs off 90 balls to steady the innings when early momentum was disrupted by Sri Lanka’s spinners. He absorbed pressure while punishing loose deliveries, building key partnerships that kept England ahead of the required rate. His innings featured judicious footwork and placement, helping England stay composed when conditions offered assistance to the bowlers.

Root shared a pivotal 81-run partnership with Harry Brook (42 off 75) in the middle overs that anchored the recovery and ensured England remained in control of the chase. With support from other contributors later in the innings, England reached their target with 22 balls to spare, finishing on 223/5.

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All-round contributions on the field

Root’s impact was not limited to his batting. With the ball, he claimed two important wickets, finishing with figures of 2 for 12 from 2.3 overs. His timely breakthroughs helped stall Sri Lanka’s scoring in the latter stages of their innings, adding crucial momentum to England’s effort.

In addition to contributing with bat and ball, Root also made a mark in the field, taking one of the standout catches of the match. His all-round showing provided balance and leadership as England adapted to challenging conditions.

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Why this performance mattered

Beyond the runs and wickets, Root’s innings was significant in context. England had been struggling away from home, facing a run of defeats in the 50-over format. This victory not only levelled the series at 1-1 but also halted a string of sub-par ODI results overseas, offering a confidence boost ahead of the decider.

Root’s composed 75 also marked his second half-century in the series, following a score of 61 in the first match. His ability to navigate spin and pace on a demanding surface highlighted both his technique and experience in subcontinental conditions.

England take series into decider

With the series now level, the third and final ODI holds major significance. England will look to build on the momentum gained from Root’s all-round performance, while Sri Lanka will aim to respond strongly on home soil. The decider promises to be an intriguing contest as both sides battle for series supremacy

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WATCH: Joe Root shines with match-winning 75 vs Sri Lanka