Harry Brook Slams 'Worst Pitch Ever' as Joe Root's 75 Guides England to Historic ODI Win Over Sri Lanka

England captain Harry Brook has delivered a scathing assessment of the playing surface at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, labelling it "probably the worst pitch I've ever played on" following his side's hard-fought five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the second one-day international.

The win marked a historic moment at the venue, becoming the first time a team chasing has won at the ground in 11 ODIs—a testament to England's adaptability and resilience on an exceptionally challenging surface.

A Record-Breaking Day for Spin Bowling

The conditions in Colombo produced remarkable spin bowling statistics that rewrote the record books. England sent down 40.3 overs of spin during the match—the most they have ever bowled in an ODI, surpassing their previous record of 36 overs against Pakistan in Sharjah back in 1985.

The pitch offered significant assistance to the slow bowlers, with England recording 3.62 degrees of spin compared to 3.15 in the first ODI—a notable 15% increase. Such was the nature of the surface that England deployed six spinners for the first time ever in the 50-over format.

Brook's Brutally Honest Assessment

At the post-match presentation, Brook held nothing back in his criticism of the playing conditions while praising his team's ability to adapt.

"The pitch is probably the worst pitch I've ever played on. You had to go out there and adapt as quickly as possible and try to get off strike and get the other batter on strike. It's nice to get a win away from home on a tough surface—we are happy to get the victory."

Brook's sentiments were echoed by his senior teammate Joe Root, who described it as "a very difficult surface" and added it was "not a good wicket for ODI cricket if I'm being brutally honest."

Joe Root's Masterclass in Difficult Conditions

While the pitch drew criticism, it also served as the stage for a batting masterclass from Joe Root. The experienced batter crafted a crucial 75 runs that proved to be the difference as England successfully chased down 220.

Root's innings showcased everything that makes him one of the world's premier batters:

• Application at the crease – Patient and composed throughout
• Lightness on his feet – Quick footwork to counter the spin
• Reading the bowlers – Exceptional ability to pick the Sri Lankan spinners

Brook was effusive in his praise for his fellow Yorkshireman:

"He is an awesome player and his ability to get off strike and put the bad ball away when they slightly miss is awesome. Joe is a phenomenal player to have in our side."

Bowling Unit Delivers Under Pressure

England's bowlers also deserved significant credit for restricting Sri Lanka to a chaseable total on a surface that heavily favoured spin. Brook acknowledged their contribution, saying his bowlers "did an amazing job" as they helped end a frustrating run of 11 ODIs without a victory.

The tactical decision to rely heavily on spin proved astute, with the English slow bowlers exploiting the conditions expertly throughout the Sri Lankan innings.

Looking Ahead

This victory represents a significant confidence boost for England's white-ball ambitions. Breaking their winless streak in such challenging circumstances demonstrates the squad's character and adaptability—qualities that will be essential as they continue their tour of Sri Lanka.

While questions about pitch preparation for international ODI cricket may linger following Brook's candid comments, England will take heart from their ability to secure victory in conditions that were heavily stacked against the chasing side.

The performance of Joe Root in particular offers reassurance that England possess the batting quality to navigate even the most treacherous surfaces, while the bowling unit's record-breaking spin effort shows tactical flexibility that could prove invaluable in subcontinental conditions.