Madushanka stars as Sri Lanka thrash Pakistan to end England’s tri-series hopes

A rejuvenated Sri Lanka routed Pakistan by eight wickets on Tuesday to end England’s hopes of reaching the ODI tri-series final.

Fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka grabbed a career-best five for 34 as Pakistan were skittled for 110 after captain Kusal Mendis had won the toss and elected to field.

Sri Lanka then overhauled the paltry target with more than 31 overs to spare to seal a place in the showpiece match on Saturday against Pakistan. Before then, Sri Lanka will take on England in a dead rubber on Thursday at the Gaddafi Stadium.

Kamindu Mendis hit an unbeaten 62 off 60 balls after being dropped by the wicketkeeper before he had scored. On 44 he successfully overturned an on-field lbw ruling with a review.

The left-handed batter, who hit eight fours and two sixes, reached his half century following a pull for six after substitute fielder Ghazi Ghori had touched the boundary with his foot while completing a catch.

Pakistan had already qualified for the final after beating England twice, including an epic one-wicket win on Sunday, and handing Sri Lanka a 37-run defeat in the opening game of the tournament.