Tom Banton Hits Maiden One-Day International Century for England, Achieves Feat During ENG vs SL 3rd ODI 2026
England's Tom Banton, 28, showcased exceptional batting prowess, smashing his maiden One-Day International century with a brilliant 123 runs off 98 balls, including 14 boundaries and three sixes.
Tom Banton etched his name into the record books today, Sunday, September 27, 2026, by scoring his maiden One-Day International century as England triumphed over Sri Lanka in a nail-biting series decider at The Kia Oval. The right-handed opener's scintillating knock of 123 runs off just 98 balls was the cornerstone of England. The 28-year-old, born on November 11, 1998, displayed a masterful blend of aggression and composure, hitting 14 boundaries and three towering sixes, much to the delight of the capacity crowd. England vs Sri Lanka Live Streaming Online and Free Telecast, 3rd ODI 2026.
Tom Banton Maiden ODI Ton
WHAT A MOMENT.
Tom Banton makes his first England century 🔥 pic.twitter.com/7hofUo3O2U
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) September 27, 2026
Decisive Encounter
The third ODI, commencing at 10:30 AM BST, was a winner-takes-all clash following a tightly contested series. England had drawn first blood, securing an 89-run victory in the opening ODI at the Riverside Ground in Chester-le-Street on September 22. However, Sri Lanka fought back valiantly, leveling the series with a 16-run win in the second ODI at Headingley, Leeds, on September 24. Today's encounter at the iconic Kennington Oval, with its capacity of approximately 27,500 spectators, thus carried immense significance.
Batting Brilliance and Team Effort
Banton's century, his first in ODI cricket, was crucial after England's top order faced early pressure. Prior to this match, his highest score in ODIs was 73, having recorded two half-centuries in his nine-match career. Skipper Harry Brook, leading the side, provided valuable support in a key partnership that steadied the innings. The middle order then capitalized on the platform set, ensuring England reached the target with overs to spare. The spirited performance underscored England's recent white-ball form, which has seen them win three of their last five ODI matches, showcasing their attacking prowess. Jos Buttler Becomes First Batter To Reach 15,000 T20 Runs, Achieves Feat During ENG vs SL 2nd T20I 2026.
Series Context and Head-to-Head
This series was a crucial fixture for both teams as they build towards future ICC tournaments. Historically, encounters between England and Sri Lanka in the ODI format have been closely fought affairs. Out of 85 matches played, Sri Lanka, under Kusal Mendis's captaincy, demonstrated resilience throughout the tour, including their T20 series preceding the ODIs.
Tom Banton's maiden ODI century will undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight of the 2026 season, marking a significant milestone in his international career and delivering a hard-fought for England on home soil. The performance sets a promising tone for England's white-ball aspirations moving forward.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 27, 2026 05:41 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
