Colombo, Sri Lanka — Young Sri Lankan batting sensation Pavan Rathnayake delivered a stunning performance in the 3rd ODI against England on 27 January 2026, smashing his maiden One-Day International century in a high-scoring encounter at the R. Premadasa Stadium. Despite his remarkable innings, Sri Lanka fell short as England clinched the 3-match ODI series 2–1.
Standout Performance in Decider Match
Set an imposing target of 357 runs by England — courtesy of spectacular centuries from Harry Brook (unbeaten 136) and Joe Root (111)* — Sri Lanka responded with courage in their chase. Rathnayake, batting in only his fourth ODI appearance, stood firm in the middle order and produced a composed, match-defining innings of 121 runs off 115 balls. His knock featured fluent stroke-play and maturity beyond his years, bringing Sri Lanka back into the contest after early setbacks.
Rathnayake’s century was the highlight of Sri Lanka’s innings — a breakthrough moment for the 23-year-old batter who has been steadily rising through domestic and ‘A’ team ranks. He became the last batter dismissed as Sri Lanka were eventually bowled out for 304, falling 53 runs short of England’s target.
Emergence on the International Stage
Before this match, Rathnayake had been earmarked as a promising young talent, having earned his maiden ODI call-up earlier for Sri Lanka’s tour of Zimbabwe in 2025 and featuring in various domestic competitions with notable scores — including List A and club performances.
His rise through the ranks was marked by eye-catching performances in school and domestic cricket, and a series of strong outings for Sri Lanka “A” and club sides. These form the foundation of his technique and temperament, which were on full display during his maiden ODI hundred.
Series Context and Match Dynamics
This 3rd ODI was pivotal in deciding the series after Sri Lanka won the opening match and England levelled in the second. England’s batting strength set a massive challenge, but Rathnayake’s knock was instrumental in ensuring Sri Lanka didn’t capitulate under pressure.
Despite the loss, his innings gave fans and selectors a glimpse of a potential future mainstay in the Sri Lankan batting lineup — especially as the national team prepares for upcoming global tournaments and crucial international fixtures.
Reactions and Future Expectations
Cricket analysts and former players have highlighted Rathnayake’s century as a key development, noting his maturity in pacing the innings and handling high-quality bowling. Fans have taken to social media to applaud his achievement, with many calling it a defining moment in his burgeoning career.
Selectors and team management are expected to back him further in limited-overs cricket, viewing his composure under pressure as a valuable asset — particularly with major ICC events on the horizon.
Summary
Pavan Rathnayake’s maiden ODI century — a resilient 121 runs in Sri Lanka’s series-deciding match against England — marks a milestone in his international career. Although Sri Lanka lost the match and the series, Rathnayake’s performance signals the arrival of a promising young talent poised for bigger stages in world cricket.
Last Updated on: Wednesday, January 28, 2026 1:21 pm by BUSINESS SAGA TEAM | Published by: BUSINESS SAGA TEAM on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 1:21 pm | News Categories: Trending News
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