The stage is set for a high-stakes encounter at the R. Premadasa Stadium England Look to tie the streak against the resurgent Sri Lanka side. It will be a must-win for the 2nd ODI on January 24 after the hosts’ clinical 19-run win in the first game. Harry Brookes young staff.
Sri Lanka are going into this match with full speed. Their strategy of using ‘mystery’ and orthodox spin proved to be England’s Achilles heel. Where in Mandy In excellent form after scoring 93 in the opener, low-order cameos Janith Liyanage and Dunith Wellalage they gave the tail much needed teeth.
England’s ‘Baseball’ philosophy faces a tough test in Colombo. while Joe Root and Ben Duckett With a 117-run stand in the first game, they showed they have the technique to handle the spin, the subsequent collapse remains a major concern. England need more than average, especially Brook and Jacob Bethellcontrol the spinning ball without losing caps in clusters.
SL vs ENG, 2nd ODI: Match Details
- Date and Time: January 24; 14:30 IST / 21:00 GMT
- Location: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
SL vs ENG, Head to Head Record (ODI):
Matches played: 80 | Sri Lanka won: 38 | England won: 38 | No result/Closed: 4
R. Premadasa Stadium Ground Report
The surface at the R. Premadasa Stadium remains one of the most tactical in the subcontinent. Traditionally slow and low, the track offers a distinct advantage to teams that can handle the turning ball. Expect the pitch to offer significant grip and spin, especially in medium passes. The first ODI saw Sri Lanka’s spinners – Hasaranga, Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage – effectively stifle the run flow. This is rarely a 300+ location. A target of 260-280 is considered highly competitive and difficult to chase under lights.
Also WATCH: Sri Lanka unveiled the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 trophy in grand fashion at the R Premadasa Stadium
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 Malushindo, Esitha Madushin, Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay
England: Harry Brook (c), Tom Bunton (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, 2nd ODI: Today’s Match Prediction
Case 1:
- Sri Lanka toss first
- England power play score: 40-50
- England total score: 250-260
Case 2:
- England win the toss first
- Sri Lanka powerplay score: 50-60
- Sri Lanka Total Score: 270-290
Match Result: The bowling team that came first in the competition
