England vs Sri Lanka: Harry Brook calls Colombo Stadium second ODI ‘probably the worst’ he has played

England captain Harry Brook has criticized the pitch used in the second one-day international against Sri Lanka in Colombo, describing it as “probably the worst” he has ever played on.

Brook’s side wrapped up a five-wicket win over Sri Lanka thanks to Joe Root’s 75 as England chased down 220 at the R Premadasa Stadium.

England bowled 40.3 overs of spin in the match – the most they have bowled in an ODI, surpassing the 36 overs in a 50-over match against Pakistan in Sharjah in 1985.

England managed 3.15 degrees of spin in the first ODI but it was 3.62 in this contest – an increase of 15% – as the tourists used six spinners for the first time in this format.

Root said it was a “very difficult surface” and not a “good wicket for ODI cricket if I’m very honest”.

But white-ball captain Brook was more critical in his assessment in the post-match show.

“The pitch is probably the worst pitch I’ve ever played on,” 26-year-old Brook said.

“You had to go out there and adjust as quickly as possible and try to get the hit out and get the other hitter to hit.

“It is nice to achieve a victory away from home on a solid surface. We are happy to achieve the victory.”

Brook said the bowlers “did a fantastic job” as they ended a run of 11 ODIs without a win.

But he reserved the greatest praise for fellow Yorkshireman Root, who played a brilliant innings under the circumstances.

Root’s application at the crease, agility of his feet and ability to pick out the Sri Lankan spinners made him the main man in England’s chase against the spinner.

“he [Root] “He’s a great player and his ability to shoot and put away a bad ball when they make a little mistake is great,” Brook added.

“Joe is an exceptional player on our team.”