ICC T20 World Cup 2016: England vs Sri Lanka - 5 Talking Points
England had bounced back from a disappointing outing against Chris Gayle with a record run-chase against South Africa in Mumbai. Even though they stuttered in their way past the Afghans, Eoin Morgan’s side arrived at the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium in Delhi with renewed vigour.
On the other hand, Sri Lanka were enduring a rough transition phase with several younger players not quite pulling their weight. After edging past Afghanistan, the Lankans ran into the West Indies and were subsequently demolished.
With South Africa losing their key encounter against the men from the Caribbean, the match presented an excellent opportunity for England to seal a place in the final four. If Sri Lanka triumphed, England were effectively out and the South Africa-Sri Lanka clash would assume a lot of significance.
Angelo Mathews won the toss and opted to field first on a hard surface. Aided by Jason Roy and Jos Buttler, England posted a healthy target which placed the Sri Lankan batsmen under duress. Despite a valiant knock from Angelo Mathews, the defending champions were ousted from the tournament in a nerve-wracking contest.
Let us take a look at the five most memorable moments from the engrossing encounter.
#1 – Jason Roy kick-starts England’s innings
Jason Roy had showed his aggressive side with an high-impact knock against South Africa which helped England pile on the pressure. Usually known for his belligerent batting, the 25-year old displayed resolve as he countered the Sri Lankan spinners.
In the final phase of his stellar career, Rangana Herath defied his age and did what he does best. The left-arm spinner confounded the dangerous Alex Hales with an arm-ball to put England on the back foot.
At this time, Roy took charge and ensured that he mixed caution with aggression. Herath was reverse-swept for a boundary which would have soothed his nerves on the big night. He continued his charge by cutting the mysterious leg-spinner, Jeffrey Vandersay to the fence.
The right-hander took on the spinners by unleashing a couple of massive sixes which pulled things in his team’s favor. Though he was trapped in front by Vandersay, Roy had negotiated a tricky phase for England.