Jacks stars as England grind out win over Sri Lanka

Will Jacks' all-round efforts helped England grind out an 89-run victory over Sri Lanka in the first one-day international at Chester-le-Street to continue their quiet revival in white-ball cricket.

Faced with a slow and low pitch, Jacks made 46 not out after 67 from Harry Brook and 44 from Joe Root, meaning England posted 265 despite being bowled out in 48.1 overs.

That score appeared only par but a professional bowling performance limited Sri Lanka's scoring and found regular wickets.

Jacks took the big wickets of Kusal Mendis and Charith Asalanka and then wrapped up the tail for career-best figures of 5-22. Sri Lanka, much improved in the field but far too timid with the bat, were bowled out for 176.

England, who have now won 10 white-ball matches in a row against Sri Lanka this year, can seal a third ODI series win in a row with a game to spare on Thursday at Headingley.

The three-match contest concludes on Sunday at The Oval - a match that brings down the curtain on one of the most topsy-turvy summers in recent memory.

This was not vintage England. For the first time since 2019 they did not hit a six batting first.

Captain Brook and coach Brendon McCullum should not mind that, however. For too long, England have only been able to win when piling up big scores.