Just days after being reported for a suspected illegal bowling action, Sri Lankan spinner Sachithra Senanayake has again found himself at the centre of controversy, this time during Sri Lanka’s series deciding ODI victory over England at Edgbaston.

The drama unfolded late in the first innings, with England pursuing quick runs in a desperate attempt to boost their total to a more respectable one.

In the 42nd over, Senanayake warned both batsmen – Jos Buttler and Chris Jordan – for backing up too far, and leaving the crease before he’d released the ball in his delivery.

Two overs later, Buttler did it again. Senanayake paused, knocked off the bails and outstretched his arms while facing the umpire.

It was an appeal, but also a gesture of ‘what else am I supposed to do?’.

In line with the rules, Buttler was promptly given out, and England went on to be bowled out for 219 from 48.1 overs.

I think if I'd been called for chucking I'd try to keep a low profile for a while rather than pull out the mankad!!! Incredible scenes! — Graeme Swann (@Swannyg66) June 3, 2014

To be clear on this I think the mankad is just wrong even though it's not illegal. Like cuddling your sister whilst watching a film. — Graeme Swann (@Swannyg66) June 3, 2014

Wow.... Not so sure that's the way I would want to be playing the game... Angelo Matthews as captain should have stopped that...! — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) June 3, 2014

Earlier, captain Alastair Cook top scored for the hosts with 56, while white-ball specialist Lasith Malinga claimed 3-50 from 9.1 overs.

Sri Lanka were 3-62 in the 11th over in response, before their ship was steadied by veteran Mahela Jayawardene (53), Lahiru Thirimanne (60 not out) and skipper Angelo Mathews (42 not out).

The victory came with 10 balls to spare, gave Sri Lanka a 3-2 series victory, and hands the visitors considerable momentum ahead of the two-Test series between the two sides, beginning June 12.