Joe Root crafted a measured 75 as England beat Sri Lanka by five wickets to level their ODI series in Colombo. Chasing 219, Root anchored the innings with his trademark patience, sharing crucial stands with Ben Duckett and Harry Brook. His innings was chanceless until an LBW review went against him on umpire's call.

England's spinners dominated on a turning R Premadasa track, with Adil Rashid's 2-34 being the most economical. The visitors used six different spinners, a record for an ODI innings, and claimed seven wickets through spin. This spin-heavy approach proved decisive in restricting Sri Lanka to a modest total on a challenging surface.

The win marks England's first ODI victory away from home in 12 attempts, a significant morale boost. Root's innings reinforced his status as a master of accumulation, moving him past 3,500 singles in ODIs. With the series now tied 1-1, the decider in Pallekele becomes a crucial contest for both teams' momentum.