The stage is set for an exciting start to the 2026 cricket calendar Sri Lanka hosted by England for the three-match ODI series starting at the famous R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. This series serves as an important building block for both teams as they refine their strategies for the future. ICC Men’s T20 World Cupis also hosted in the subcontinent.
led Charith AsalankaSri Lanka enter this series with a squad that emphasizes consistency. Despite a tough recent series ahead Pakistanvoters kept their faith in the core group. It looks solid with a shot Pathum Nissanka and Where in Mandy at the peak during the emergence of Kamindu Mendis provides versatility in the middle order.
The Lions’ main strength remains their spin department. A Colombo surface is known to hold three Wanindu Hasaranga, Mahesh Theekshanaand veteran Jeffrey Vandersay the aggressive Englishman will try to suppress his tattoos.
Comes with England Harry Brooke at the helm, marking a significant step in the team’s leadership transition. The squad is a mix of world-class experience and fresh talent. return of Zach Crawley After a long hiatus (776 days), the ODI set-up is a major talking point as England look to strengthen their opening pair.
The visitors’ spin attack is boosted by their presence Adil Rashid and young people Rehan Ahmedmanaged to join the squad after visa delays. with Joe Root Providing the anchor role, England’s influence on the white-ball game of ‘Baseball’ will be tested by Sri Lanka’s slow, turning tracks.
SL vs ENG, 1st ODI: Match Details
- Date and Time: January 22 (Thursday); 14:30 IST / 21:00 GMT
- Location: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
SL vs ENG, Head to Head Record (ODI):
Matches played: 79 | England won: 38 | Sri Lanka won: 37 | No Results/Closed: 4
R. Premadasa Stadium Ground Report
Square R. Premadasa Stadium Colombo is expected to have a classic subcontinental surface characterized by its slow nature and significant contribution to rotation. While the black dirt track can offer some consistent bounce and some zip for the pacers during the initial powerplay under the midday sun, it tends to deteriorate rapidly as the match progresses. As the surface dries, it becomes more opaque and turns the midsection into a spinner’s paradise with variable bounce and sharp turn potential. With an average first innings score of 232, bowling first is the preferred strategy to avoid tough defense on a wet pitch due to the dew factor.
Groups
Sri Lanka: Charith Asalanka (c), Kusal Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Pathum Nissanka, Pavan Rathnayake, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Dhananjaya de Silva, Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Malushinga, Praghan, Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay
England: Harry Brooke (c), Tom Banton (wk), Jos Buttler (wk), Zach Crowley, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Jacob Bethel, Braydon Kars, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Rehan Ahmed, Adil Rashid, Luke Wood
SL vs ENG, 1st ODI: Today’s Match Prediction
Case 1:
- Sri Lanka toss first
- England powerplay score: 55-65
- England total score: 260-270
Case 2:
- England win the toss first
- Sri Lanka powerplay score: 55-65
- Sri Lanka Total Score: 300-310
Match result: Sri Lanka will win the competition
Also READ: Pakistan has suspended its 2026 T20 World Cup preparations to show solidarity with Bangladesh
