England clinch ODI series in New Delhi as Brook’s 136* and Root’s 111 power 357/3 vs Sri Lanka

England wrapped up a 2–1 ODI series win over Sri Lanka with a commanding 53-run victory in the third match, played in New Delhi. The decider turned into a statement innings for England’s top order, led by Harry Brook’s extraordinary late-overs acceleration and Joe Root’s stabilising century that ensured England posted a target well beyond par.

Brook’s late surge transforms the total

Brook produced a brutal unbeaten 136 from 66 balls, featuring a barrage of boundaries and big hits that changed the tempo of the innings in a matter of overs. His strike rate and range ensured that Sri Lanka’s bowlers were forced into defensive fields early, while the scoring kept climbing despite wicket control. The innings was built for a modern ODI finish: maximise the final phase and deny the opponent any breathing room.

Root anchors, then accelerates

At the other end, Root compiled 111 from 108 balls, providing shape and security to the innings before England’s hitters went into overdrive. Root’s role was pivotal because it prevented collapses that can follow aggressive intent, allowing England to bat deep and unleash power later. Together, the pair powered England to 357/3.

How the chase slipped away

• A steep asking rate put Sri Lanka under constant pressure from the start
• England’s total reduced risk tolerance for Sri Lanka’s batters, forcing more high-risk strokes
• Even a strong partnership phase would have required repeated boundary bursts to stay on track

Sri Lanka ultimately finished 53 runs short, handing England the decider and the series. For England, the match reinforced a clear template: Root’s control up front, then a high-impact finisher’s assault to post totals that squeeze opponents before the chase begins.