Will Jacks delivered a career-best performance with both bat and ball to lead England to a victory in the opening match of the three-game ODI series at Chester-le-Street.

England secured an 89-run victory over Sri Lanka in the first one-day international at Chester-le-Street on Wednesday. Despite being bowled out for 265 in 48.1 overs, England’s bowlers restricted Sri Lanka to 176, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Will Jacks played a pivotal role, scoring an unbeaten 46 and taking 5-22 to help England continue their recent white-ball winning streak.

England's Batting Performance

England struggled on a slow, low pitch, failing to hit a single six while batting first for the first time since 2019. Captain Harry Brook top-scored with 67, while Joe Root contributed 44. The team experienced a middle-order collapse, losing four wickets for 29 runs. Debutant Sri Lankan leg-spinner Sachindu Colombage proved effective, dismissing both Root and Jos Buttler, who scored 31. Will Jacks provided a crucial late-innings boost, scoring 18 runs in the 47th over to help push the total to 265 before the side was dismissed.

Bowling Dominance and Series Outlook

England's bowling attack maintained consistent pressure, preventing Sri Lanka from building momentum. Will Jacks recorded career-best figures of 5-22, claiming the wickets of Kusal Mendis and Charith Asalanka before cleaning up the tail. Jamie Overton also contributed with two wickets. For Sri Lanka, Dunith Wellalage top-scored with 45, but the team was ultimately bowled out for 176. This victory marks England's 10th consecutive white-ball win against Sri Lanka this year. The teams will meet again on Thursday at Headingley, where England has the opportunity to clinch the series.