SL vs ENG Preview | Full-strength Lanka and England begin final series before T20 World Cup in Pallekele

The first T20I in Pallekele will be a test of form for both teams. England came into the match as one of the most consistent teams in the short format. Sri Lanka are playing on home turf and will be relying on familiar conditions and spin bowlers. The opening match is often crucial for the whole series. The history of the meetings also plays a role, as England have been the more frequent winners in recent years. For Sri Lanka, this is a chance to turn the situation around.

Form Guide

Sri Lanka has shown inconsistent results in recent matches. The team won three of its last five games but lost twice to Pakistan. In some matches, there were problems when batting first, especially in the middle of the innings. The victory in the last match added confidence ahead of the series.

England looks more confident based on its results. The team has won three out of five matches, with two more ending in no result. Victories over Ireland and New Zealand showed a strong top order and good work from the bowlers. Even in matches with no result, England controlled the course of the game.

Sri Lanka: W W L L W

England: W W NR W NR

Sri Lanka vs England Head-to-Head

England leads in head-to-head T20I matches. In recent years, England has often won thanks to strong starts to innings and a stable middle order. Sri Lanka has periodically put up a fight, but has not always been able to maintain the pace throughout the match.

Sri Lanka 4-10 England

Pitch and Weather

Pallekele International Cricket Stadium is considered a balanced pitch for T20. Fast bowlers may have an advantage early in the match, but later on the pitch slows down and becomes more suitable for spin. Average totals here usually allow both teams to compete. At the end of January, Pallekele is warm and humid, with possible cloud cover in the evening. The captain who wins the toss may choose to bowl first, considering the possible dew in the second innings.

Team News

Sri Lanka are fielding their usual lineup. Pathum Nissanka remains the key opener, who is expected to deliver a stable start. Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana will be the main spin bowlers. Dasun Shanaka continues to lead the team and is responsible for the balance of the lineup.

England have brought a strong squad for T20. Phil Salt and Ben Duckett will start the innings, with Jos Buttler adding experience and pace in the middle. In bowling, England are relying on a combination of pace and spin, with Adil Rashid playing a key role. Harry Brook continues in the role of captain.

Sri Lanka (Probable XI): Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka (c), Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Dushmantha Chameera

England: Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (wk), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Harry Brook (c), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Liam Dawson, Jamie Overton, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid

Broadcasting Platforms

The first T20I between Sri Lanka and England will be available for telecast on the Sony Sports Network and broadcast live on the Sony Liv app and website.