England clinched a T20 series victory over Sri Lanka with a commanding six-wicket win in Cardiff, following a 119-run victory in Southampton earlier in the week. This match saw England chase down Sri Lanka’s total of 145-9 with ease, finishing with 7.5 overs to spare and marking their 14th consecutive T20 win over Sri Lanka.

Tom Banton emerged as the star of the match, scoring an unbeaten 52 from 24 balls, showcasing his explosive power with two fours and four sixes. England now holds an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series ahead of the third match at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Sri Lanka initially started strong, reaching 56 without loss during the powerplay. However, their innings faltered, with Liam Dawson being the standout bowler for England, taking 3-32. Jamie Overton and Sonny Baker also contributed, with figures of 2-23 and 1-15, respectively.

Key highlights from the match include:

• Openers Aneurin Donald and Jos Buttler provided a rapid 50-run partnership.
• Buttler became the first player to achieve 15,000 T20 runs, scoring 30 runs off 16 balls.
• Harry Brook, looking to replicate his previous performance, scored 23 runs and hit three sixes.
• Banton's innings marked his fifth and fastest T20 fifty.

England made one change, bringing in Jofra Archer for Josh Tongue, allowing Donald to earn his second cap. In contrast, Sri Lanka introduced ambidextrous spinner Tharindu Rathnayake after their previous defeat.

Despite a promising start, Sri Lanka's performance deteriorated as England applied pressure. Pathum Nissanka and Lahiru Udara initially attacked, but the introduction of Dawson shifted the momentum. Sri Lanka ended their innings with Asalanka scoring a run-a-ball 31, but it wasn't enough as England tightened their grip, ultimately dismissing Sri Lanka for 145.