Sri Lanka are preparing to face England in Rawalpindi in the third match of the ongoing Pakistan ODI tri-series, with both sides looking to bounce back after getting their campaign off to a disappointing start. Both sides have experienced setbacks in their last encounters against Pakistan, making this showdown highly significant for them to win. 

For England, the overriding concern remains their batting attack that succumbed to pressure against Pakistan. They headed into the clash against Pakistan on the back of three consecutive ODI series victories, but their downfall against the hosts highlighted the areas of improvement ahead of the ODI World Cup 2027. Against Pakistan, chasing a target of 303, England had a fine start, remaining in complete control after reaching 91 for no loss.

However, their innings collapsed dramatically, with the entire lineup bowled out for 215. Tom Banton was the only fighter for England, slamming an impressive century. Other than him, Joe Root showed some composure during his innings of 33, while Ben Duckett starred with 45 but Harry Brook’s failure made things difficult for England.

Sri Lanka, on the other hand, gave a tough fight to Pakistan, and they would hope to build have a clear tactical opportunity heading into Thursday’s encounter. England’s collapse against Pakistan exposed their vulnerability against spin, an area in which the Sri Lankan attack possesses considerable depth and variety.

Head-to-head

Matches - 81

SL won - 37

ENG won - 40

No result - 3

Tied - 1

Sri Lanka probable XI: Avishka Fernando, Kamindu Mendis Kusal Mendis (c&wk), Pavan Rathnayake, Dunith Wellalage, Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka, Sachindu Colombage, Eshan Malinga, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka

England probable XI: Tom Banton, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Harry Brook (c), Jordan Cox (wk), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Gus Atkinson, Adil Rashid, Josh Tongue