Choosing to bat first, England found themselves under pressure as Ben Duckett (7) and Rehan Ahmed (24) fell within the first 11 overs.
However, Root and Jacob Bethell steadied the ship with a solid 126-run partnership for the third wicket until Bethell’s confident innings of 65 was halted by Jeffrey Vandersay.
Root then teamed up with captain Brook, whose explosive performance shifted the game’s balance significantly.
Brook delivered an ODI career-best 136 off just 66 balls, striking 11 fours and nine sixes in a breathtaking display that revitalized England’s innings.
While Brook exploded at one end, Root continued to anchor the innings at the other, finishing with an unbeaten 111 off 108 balls. Together, they added an unbroken 191 runs from 113 balls, propelling England to a formidable total of 357-3.
Sri Lanka commenced their chase with determination.
Kamil Mishara added 22, and Pathum Nissanka blasted five fours and three sixes en route to a rapid 50 off 24 balls before Jamie Overton’s bowling brought a halt to their momentum.
Captain Charith Asalanka (13) and Janith Liyanage (22) quickly followed, as England maintained pressure with disciplined bowling.
The hosts were reduced to 202-6 by the 32nd over. Although Pavan Rathnayake (121) kept the innings alive with his maiden ODI century, wickets continued to tumble around him.
Rathnayake’s resistance was finally broken when Sam Curran delivered a full ball that knocked back his leg stump, leading to Sri Lanka being bowled out for 304.
“It was an incredible effort from everyone involved,” remarked Player of the Match Brook. “Rooty is just exceptional. Having him in the side is a daily boost.”
“The pitch was better than we anticipated. It still played a role, but we’re pleased with the score we posted and our ability to defend it.”
Sri Lanka had secured the first ODI by 19 runs before England leveled the series with a five-wicket win.
“It was challenging to contain them (Root and Brook),” Asalanka acknowledged.
“I expected the ball might turn on this surface, but when it doesn’t, it’s tough for spinners in the last 10 overs.”
“The T20 series is the most crucial step before the T20 World Cup. We need to focus on the fundamentals ahead of this important tournament.”
The three-match T20 series kicks off on Friday.
