Pallekele, Jan 31 (V7N) — England began their three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka with an 11-run victory under the Duckworth–Lewis–Stern (DLS) method in a rain-affected first match at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Friday.

After winning the toss, England opted to field first in a match repeatedly interrupted by rain and eventually reduced to 17 overs per side.

Batting first, Sri Lanka were bowled out for 133 runs in 16.2 overs. England spinner Sam Curran made history by becoming only the second England bowler to take a hat-trick in international T20Is. Adil Rashid also impressed with the ball, claiming three wickets to restrict the hosts.

England were set a revised target of 115 runs in 15 overs under the DLS method. The visitors reached 125 for 4 in 15 overs before rain forced an early end to the match. At the time of abandonment, England were 11 runs ahead of the DLS par score, securing the win with six wickets in hand.

Opener Phil Salt led England’s chase with a solid 46 runs, while Tom Banton provided late momentum, scoring 29 off just 15 balls.

For his all-round performance, Adil Rashid was named Man of the Match.

The second T20I of the series will be played at the same venue on Sunday evening, where Sri Lanka will look to level the series.

END/SMA/AJ