Joe Root's all-round performance powered England to a five-wicket win over Sri Lanka in Colombo, leveling the three-match ODI series. Root claimed 2-13 with the ball before top-scoring with 75, guiding the tourists to chase down 220. This victory ended a torrid 14-month run for England away from home.

The win snapped an 11-match losing streak in away ODIs for England, a crucial turnaround for captain Harry Brook's side. After being bowled out for 219, Sri Lanka were restricted by disciplined England spin. Jos Buttler’s unbeaten 33 off 21 balls sealed the chase with 22 balls to spare, setting up a decisive final ODI.

The series decider now looms at the same venue on Tuesday. For England, ending their poor away form is vital ahead of future World Cup campaigns. Sri Lanka must address a batting collapse that left them 30 runs short, according to captain Charith Asalanka. All eyes are on Colombo for the final showdown.