During their talks, the Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the UK for its support following Cyclone Ditwa, which includes ongoing rebuilding and recovery efforts. She also praised the UK's assistance in boosting bilateral trade and exports for Sri Lanka. The Prime Minister updated the UK delegation about Sri Lanka’s recent economic changes and policy goals. She highlighted the Government’s dedication to promoting human rights and reconciliation, as well as the positive growth path Sri Lanka is on. The two parties discussed various global geopolitical issues, challenges in the energy sector, and the need for improved regional connectivity and long-term energy security. They both agreed on the significance of enhancing structured academic mobility frameworks, ensuring fairness and clarity in migration systems. Additionally, they reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in areas of shared interest. [Prime Minister’s Media Division] In sports, England kicked off the final stage of their World Cup preparations with a strong seven-wicket victory in the first T20I against New Zealand. Alice Capsey excelled in her new role as opener, scoring an impressive 74 not out off 51 balls. She helped England chase down a target of 137, hitting three sixes and seven fours while finishing the game with 16 balls remaining. This match was England's first T20I in nearly 10 months and they were without captain Nat Sciver-Brunt due to a calf injury. England showed strong fielding and their bowlers dominated from the beginning, starting with Lauren Bell taking a wicket on the first ball. Linsey Smith delivered an outstanding performance with figures of 1 for 10 in four overs, including 15 dot balls. Freya Kemp, returning after a 16-month break due to a back injury, bowled for the first time, giving away 16 runs in two wicketless overs, while also contributing an unbeaten 31 runs off 20 balls to support Capsey. Charlie Dean, filling in for Sciver-Brunt as captain, took two wickets. Together, the team restricted the reigning T20 world champions. Apart from Sophie Devine’s quick 45 runs off 22 balls and a late partnership of 36 runs between Maddy Green and Izzy Sharp, the White Ferns struggled to score. Suzie Bates batted at No. 9 as the team prepares for life after her retirement following the T20 World Cup, but she did not get a chance to bat as Jess Kerr was run out on the last ball of the innings, leaving the team at 136 for 7.
