England steamrollered Sri Lanka in the third T20 at Old Trafford to complete a 3-0 series sweep and return to number one in the world rankings. Sri Lanka were bowled out for 124, with Nissanka top-scoring on 36 and Mendis making 35. England’s pace attack shone: Baker took 2-17, Archer 2-23, and Jacks 2-31, while Overton conceded just 15 runs in four overs.

Fielding was sharp, highlighted by Dawson’s direct hit to run out Malinga. In reply, Buttler (62* off 32) and Brook (33 off 21) added 85 for the second wicket before Brook was run out. Buttler finished it with a six to win by eight wickets with 62 balls to spare – England’s best home T20 performance.

The win marks their 23rd victory in 26 T20s since Brook’s captaincy began in summer 2024. England have reclaimed the No.1 spot from India. The next men’s T20 World Cup is not until 2028, the same year T20 cricket debuts in the Olympics.

England are now targeting the 2027 50-over World Cup in southern Africa. Three ODIs against Sri Lanka start in Durham on Tuesday.