Sri Lankan spinner Maheesh Theekshana expressed his belief that England had underestimated his team at their own peril, following Sri Lanka's commanding eight-wicket win over the defending champions. The victory has dealt a blow to England's hopes of progressing to the semifinals of the mega tournament.

The match saw Sri Lankan bowlers showcase remarkable accuracy on a pitch with unpredictable bounce, dismantling England's lineup to restrict them to a mere 156 runs. This impressive display set the stage for Sri Lanka's convincing chase, led by Sadeera Samarawickrama and Pathum Nissanka who both scored half-centuries. The target was comfortably achieved in just 25.4 overs.

Despite previously suffering three losses, Sri Lanka's victory against the Netherlands provided the team with the confidence needed to defy expectations. Theekshana emphasized the importance of backing their strengths and executing their plans effectively. Reflecting on their previous performances, Theekshana admitted that the team's bowling had been a weak point, but with dedicated practice sessions and improved discipline, they were able to turn the tide in this crucial match.

The surface at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, which is known to favor batsmen, showcased a change in character as the bowlers were able to extract some turn, pace, and bounce. However, Sri Lanka demonstrated their batting prowess by accumulating 150 runs with just two wickets down, proving their ability to adapt to the conditions.

Following their win over England, Sri Lanka's team morale has received a significant boost, allowing them to approach their upcoming matches with renewed confidence. Their aim now is to perform well in their remaining four matches and secure a spot in the semifinals.

The victory over the defending champions serves as a reminder to never underestimate Sri Lanka's cricketing prowess. England will now need to regroup and strategize in order to keep their tournament hopes alive.

In conclusion, Sri Lanka's inspired performance against England has garnered them a well-deserved win, leaving England with a daunting task ahead. The Sri Lankan team's resurgence serves as a testament to their determination and ability to rise to the occasion.