England vs Sri Lanka: Jos Buttler's bravery in vain as tourists fight back to level series
Sri Lanka defeated England by 16 runs in the second one-day international at Headingley, leveling the series. Despite a strong performance by Jos Buttler, England fell short of the target after a late-game collapse.
Why it matters
The result sets up a series-deciding match, impacting international cricket rankings and team momentum ahead of the World Cup.
Figure caption, Highlights: Mendis hits century as Sri Lanka beat England at Headingley
Second Metro Bank one-day international, Headingley
Sri Lanka 321-6 (50 overs): Kusal 121, Kamindu 54; Ahmed 2-48
England 305-9 (50 overs): Banton 73, Buttler 69; Wellalage 3-49
Jos Buttler's bravery came in vain as Sri Lanka fought back to beat England in the second one-day international at Headingley and set up a series decider at The Oval.
Needing 68 from 75 balls, England were cruising towards a target of 322 until Buttler retired hurt on 67 after tweaking a hamstring.
When Rehan Ahmed, Gus Atkinson and Jamie Overton fell, Buttler re-emerged with 27 needed from 14 balls and witnessed Will Jacks fall for 52 at the non-striker's end.
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