International cricket returns to the iconic R. Premadasa Stadium Sri Lanka hosted by England in the opening match of the three-match ODI series. This series serves as an important warm-up for both sides ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026will start next month.
England enter the series under Harry Brooke looking to find his footing in Asian conditions after a difficult Ashes campaign. Meanwhile, Charith AsalankaThe Sri Lankan side will be looking to use their home advantage and bounce back from their last series game against Pakistan.
England have already confirmed their 11-man squad. The title is a comeback Zach Crawley to the ODI format after two years. The visitors, including the experienced ones, favor a spin attack Adil Rashid and Liam Dawson.
The hosts have selected a 17-man squad with a mix of youth and experience. Wanindu Hasaranga and Mahesh Theekshana will lead a huge spin department, looking at the top line Pathum Nissanka for a solid start.
SL vs ENG 1st ODI: Probable XI
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (WK), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka (C), Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando, Pramod Madushan.
England: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook (C), Jos Buttler (WK), Will Jacks, Sam Curran, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Adil Rashid.
Note: England have already announced their playing XI for the first ODI
R.Premadasa Stadium Ground Report
The R. Premadasa Stadium is historically known as a spinner’s paradise and tomorrow’s surface is expected to follow suit. Expect the pitch to offer significant grip and turn as the match progresses. With specialist spinners like Adil Rashid and Wanindu Hasaranga in the mix, the middle overs are likely to be a battle of attrition. Statistically, teams that bat first have a higher percentage of wins in this space (55%). Tracking under lights can become difficult as the surface slows down and the ball starts to “stick” on the court.
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R.Premadasa Stadium Statistics and Records
- Total Matches: 184
- Matches won in first innings: 102
- Matches won in bowling: 70
- Average score in 1st innings: 230
- Average score in 2nd innings: 188
- Most recorded common: 375/5 (50 Ovs) India vs Sri Lanka
- The lowest total recorded was: 50/10 (15.2 Overs) Sri Lanka vs India
- Highest Score Pursued: 292/4 (48.3 Ovs) Sri Lanka vs Australia
- Lowest score defended: 170/10 (49.2 Overs) By West Indies Women vs Sri Lanka Women
