Jacks' majic powers England to beat Sri Lanka in first ODI

Will Jacks produced a career-best 5-22 with the ball and scored an unbeaten 46 as England beat Sri Lanka by 89 runs in the first ODI at Chester-le-Street on Tuesday (September 22).

England, batting first after winning the toss, were bowled out for 265 in 48.1 overs. Sri Lanka struggled in reply, losing all their wickets for 176 in 37 overs as England continued their strong recent run in the format.

Harry Brook top-scored with 67 off 69 balls before being caught at deep cover, while Jacks struck 46 not out from 47 deliveries. Joe Root made 44 off 52 before debutant leg-spinner Sachindu Colombage bowled him.

Colombage finished with 3-44 from 10 overs, also dismissing Jos Buttler for 31. Sri Lanka seamer Asitha Fernando claimed 3-53 in 9.1 overs as England's final five wickets added 69 runs on a slow surface.

Sri Lanka never established a sustained partnership in the chase. Captain Kusal Mendis made 42 from 60 balls, while Dunith Wellalage hit a brisk 45 off 36 before becoming one of Jacks’ three victims in a single over that ended the innings.

The win was England’s fifth in their last six ODIs, including two victories over Sri Lanka in Colombo in January. Brook praised Jacks for adapting to the conditions and contributing with both bat and ball.

The second ODI will be played in Leeds on Thursday, with the series finale scheduled at The Oval on Sunday.