Harry Brook hit a brilliant century as England beat Sri Lanka by 119 runs in the opening T20I in Southampton on Tuesday.
The England captain smashed an unbeaten 114 from just 49 balls at the Utilita Bowl. His innings helped the hosts post a huge 254 for four.
Brook reached his hundred from only 42 balls. He struck 10 fours and six sixes during his powerful knock. It was his first international century in 18 innings across all formats. His previous hundred came against Pakistan during the World Cup in February.
Brook also recorded the joint second fastest T20I century by an England batter. Jos Buttler played a key role alongside him. The pair added 128 runs for the second wicket and put Sri Lanka under heavy pressure.
Buttler scored 80 from 44 balls before his innings came to an end. Sri Lanka faced a huge task in reply and never came close to the target.
Sonny Baker led England’s bowling attack on his home ground. He took three wickets for just 12 runs as Sri Lanka were bowled out for 135.
England completed a comfortable 119 run victory to take the lead in the T20 series. The result also gave Kevin Pietersen a winning start after he returned to the England setup as a mentor with the white ball side.
