England beat Sri Lanka to end ODI tri-series in Lahore

Ben Duckett scored 167 runs and Liam Dawson claimed four wickets as England defeated Sri Lanka by 104 runs in Lahore on October 29, 2026, closing out the ODI tri-series with their first victory in the format in Pakistan since December 2005.

Ending a Two-Decade Drought in Pakistan

England arrived in Lahore carrying a six-match losing streak in ODIs on Pakistani soil, a skid that spanned three defeats at the previous year’s Champions Trophy and three losses to open the current tri-series. The breakthrough victory snapped a winless drought in the country stretching back to December 2005.

Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to field first, citing early dew conditions. That decision backfired as Duckett and Tom Banton carved out a 163-run opening partnership. Banton contributed 74 runs from 75 deliveries before dragging a slower ball from Dasun Shanaka onto his stumps. Duckett capitalized on benign conditions with minimal swing or seam movement on offer, punishing anything wide of off stump and working deliveries off his pads.

Fitness and Selection Dilemmas at the Top

Duckett reached his century during an innings where he struck 14 boundaries before falling in the 42nd over, caught by wicketkeeper-captain Kusal Mendis off Eshan Malinga while attempting a scoop shot. Sportscape Magazine reported that Sonny Baker replaced Jamie Overton in the playing XI after medical scans confirmed Overton sustained a quad tear, prompting the England and Wales Cricket Board to exercise caution with the upcoming Ashes tour approaching.

Banton’s recent form—featuring stands with Duckett of 143, 6, 91, 74, 4 and 163 in their past six outings together—has created a selection dilemma for England coach Brendon McCullum. Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, McCullum acknowledged that having multiple players pushing for the opening slot alongside Duckett represents a good problem for the team management.

The return of Jacob Bethell from injury in Australia will force a decision on top-order deployment. Jordan Cox retained the wicketkeeping duties in the continued absence of Jos Buttler.

Dawson’s Spin Dismantles the Chase

Liam Dawson delivered a decisive spell, finishing with figures of 4 for 49. Supporters viewed Dawson’s spell as match-winning in those conditions, reinforcing his growing value in England’s white-ball setup despite this marking only his 14th appearance in the format.

Henry Crocombe chipped in with a wicket on his comeback, dismissing Sahan Arachchige for 30 with an 85 mph delivery that cramped the batsman for room. A mix-up later in the innings resulted in Dunith Wellalage being run out, effectively extinguishing Sri Lanka’s lower-order resistance and securing the 104-run margin.

Disclaimer: The insights provided in this article are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or sports betting recommendations.

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