As the Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 enters into the Super 8 phase, match 2 will see co-hosts Sri Lanka take on England in a high-intensity showdown on Sunday at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy. With semi-final spots on the line, both sides will hope to perform well. Sri Lanka’s road to the Super 8 has been highly uplifting. The Lankan side brushed aside Oman with authority before delivering a spirited display against Australia that showed growing confidence. 

Moreover, familiarity with subcontinental surfaces has clearly worked to their advantage. However, Sri Lanka suffered a late wobble after they were stunned by Zimbabwe with a six-wicket win in their final group-stage match. Sri Lanka squandered a commanding batting platform, followed by an underwhelming display with the ball. Nonetheless, they would hope to get back to their best and perform up to the standards. 

On the other hand, England’s path to this stage has been tough. Under the leadership of Harry Brook, they negotiated a tricky Group C. Despite performing well, inconsistency has shadowed their campaign. Unexpectedly challenging outings against Nepal and Italy raised eyebrows, and a defeat to West Indies highlighted lapses in execution under pressure. On paper, England’s batting lineup brims with explosive potential, but that firepower has consistently been unable to blaze. Once again they will face intense competition from Sri Lanka as they eye a powerful performance.

Head-to-head

Matches - 17

ENG won - 13

SL won - 4

England squad: Harry Brook (c), Tom Banton, Jos Buttler, Ben Duckett, Phil Salt, Jacob Bethell, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Josh Tongue, Luke Wood.

Sri Lanka squad: Kusal Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Pavan Rathnayake, Dasun Shanaka (c), Charith Asalanka, Dushan Hemantha, Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka, Pramod Madushan, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage.