Curran hat trick sinks Sri Lanka: 1st T20 (Pallekele)

England took a 1–0 lead in the T20I series after beating Sri Lanka by 11 runs (DLS method) in a rain-affected 1st T20I at Pallekele.

Put in to bat in a reduced 17-over contest, Sri Lanka were bowled out for 133, with Kusal Mendis (37 off 20) providing the only real impetus up top. England’s spinners controlled the middle overs, led superbly by Adil Rashid (3/19), while Sam Curran’s late hat-trick triggered a sharp collapse that kept the total in check.

In reply, England made steady progress before rain intervened, reaching 125/4 in 15 overs, comfortably ahead of the DLS par score. Phil Salt (46) anchored the chase, with Tom Banton (29 off 15) adding momentum during a key phase.

Persistent rain ended proceedings early, confirming England’s victory and handing them early control of the series.

England 125 for 4 (Salt 46) beat Sri Lanka 133 (Kusal 37, Rashid 3-19, Curran 3-38) by 11 runs - DLS.

Jan 2026.