Sri Lanka vs England: Harry Brook’s side loses their first international match in Colombo

The target of 272 was modest by modern ODI standards, but well above par at this venue – only three overs have been chased down to win a one-dayer at this ground.

Zak Crawley, making his first international cap in more than two years, was out in familiar fashion – edging wide for just six, before Root and Duckett gave England a chance.

Duckett looked horribly out of touch, swinging and hitting. The left-hander had 21 off the first 37 balls he faced, then found his rhythm after four balls in the over. This was his highest score in any cricket match since the last Test against India in July.

Root, an expert in these conditions, was brilliant, finding openings and working hard. However, even at 129-1, England were not in complete control.

Duckett was reversingly sweeping the leg-spin of Jeffrey Vandersay, Root’s leg before sweeping conventionally the spin of Dhananjaya da Silva which was delivered from around the wicket. England collapsed.

Sri Lanka found a growing turn, and England found ways out. Brook ran past Shamira Asalanka only to stumble on the leg side and Bethel – who struggled for 15 off 32 balls – was stumped between the bat and the pad from left-arm spinner Donith Willalage.

With England faltering, they were offered some hope through Rehan Ahmed (27), until he was brilliantly caught by Wellalagh at long-on. Overton had 34 of 17, although a steal was never likely.