England secured a commanding eight-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in their final Twenty20 international encounter, completing a three-match series sweep and reclaiming the top spot in the global rankings. Playing under cool autumn conditions, the hosts showcased their depth by dismantling the visiting batting lineup before cruising to their target with more than ten overs to spare. The triumph marks another milestone under the leadership of captain Harry Brook, whose squad has dominated the format since he assumed control.

Sri Lanka struggled to build momentum after losing the toss and managed only 124 runs before being bowled out in 18.5 overs. Pathum Nissanka top-scored with 36 runs from 24 deliveries, while Kamindu Mendis added 35. Despite missing several key players due to injury, England's pace attack proved too formidable on the day.

Seamer Sonny Baker continued his developmental progress by claiming two wickets for 17 runs, while Jofra Archer recovered from an expensive opening over to finish with figures of two for 23. Jamie Overton delivered a particularly frugal spell, conceding just 15 runs across his four overs and picking up a wicket. Fielding excellence further compounded Sri Lanka's troubles, highlighted by a direct-hit run-out from Liam Dawson and a sharp catch by Brook.

The modest target was easily overhauled by the English batting order, which reached 125 for two in just 9.4 overs. Opener Aneurin Donald fell early for 13 after being stumped off the bowling of Tharindu Rathnayake. However, Jos Buttler and Brook combined for an unbroken second-wicket partnership of 85 runs to guide their side home comfortably.

Brook contributed 33 runs before he was run out, leaving former captain Buttler to finish the contest in style with a massive six. Buttler remained undefeated on 61, sealing a victory achieved with 62 balls remaining, the largest margin of balls-to-spare for an England men's home T20 international. The win elevates England back to the number one ranking position, overtaking India.

The victory extends an impressive run under Brook, whose team has secured 23 wins from 26 completed T20 matches. Attention will now shift toward the 50-over format, with a three-match one-day international series against Sri Lanka scheduled to begin in Durham.

Reporting based on coverage first published by BBC Sport. Read the original report at BBC Sport.