India, Feb. 22 -- Only three hit-wicket dismissals had been recorded in T20 World Cup history prior to the 2024 edition. The 2026 tournament has already witnessed three more in the last 11 days, with Dushan Hemantha becoming the latest victim on Sunday, an embarrassing dismissal that perfectly summed up Sri Lanka's horror outing in front of their home crowd in Pallekele. The hosts crumbled for just 95 in 16.4 overs despite favourable conditions, as England secured an emphatic 51-run victory to make the ideal start to their Super 8 Group 2 campaign.

The defeat also marked England's 12th consecutive win over Sri Lanka, including a 3-0 series whitewash earlier this month on the eve of the World Cup.

Despite missing three frontline bowlers,...