England are one victory away from their first away ODI series triumph since March 2023. After losing four consecutive bilateral series and suffering a disastrous 50-over World Cup title defense, Harry Brook's side snapped an 11-match losing streak in Colombo. A five-wicket win over Sri Lanka on a heavily criticized pitch has set up a decisive third ODI on Tuesday.

The victory was crucial for a team under pressure, coming after a dismal Ashes series and a nightclub incident involving captain Brook. Joe Root, who top-scored with 75, and Brook (42) led the chase for a modest 220. This result eases scrutiny on head coach Brendon McCullum ahead of the T20 World Cup, where England's performance could be pivotal for his future.

All-rounder Liam Dawson, in the T20 World Cup squad, is focused on the white-ball tournament rather than a Test recall. The 35-year-old, who took a wicket in each ODI, admitted he didn't expect to be involved at this stage of his career. England's immediate goal is securing the series win before shifting focus to the global tournament in India and Sri Lanka.