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International cricket returns to the iconic R. Premadasa Stadium as Sri Lanka hosts England in the opening fixture of a three-match ODI series. This series serves as a vital warm-up for both sides ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which begins next month.
England enters the series under the leadership of Harry Brook, looking to find their footing in Asian conditions after a challenging Ashes campaign. Meanwhile, Charith Asalanka’s Sri Lankan side will be eager to exploit their home advantage and bounce back from a recent series sweep against Pakistan.
England have already confirmed their playing XI. The headline is the return of Zak Crawley to the ODI format after over two years. The visitors are opting for a spin-heavy attack, including the experienced Adil Rashid and Liam Dawson.
The hosts have named a 17-member squad featuring a blend of youth and experience. Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana will lead a formidable spin department, while the top order looks to Pathum Nissanka for a solid start.
SL vs ENG 1st ODI: Probable Playing 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 Pitch 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 will likely be a battle of attrition. Statistically, teams batting first have a higher win percentage at this venue (55%). Chasing can become difficult under lights as the surface slows down and the ball begins to “stick” in the pitch.
Also READ: IND vs NZ: List of records Suryakumar Yadav can break in the T20I series
R.Premadasa Stadium Stats and Records
- Total matches: 184
- Matches won batting first: 102
- Matches won bowling first: 70
- Average 1st innings score: 230
- Average 2nd innings score: 188
- Highest total recorded: 375/5 (50 Ovs) By India vs Sri Lanka
- Lowest total recorded: 50/10 (15.2 Ovs) By Sri Lanka vs India
- Highest score chased: 292/4 (48.3 Ovs) By Sri Lanka vs Australia
- Lowest score defended: 170/10 (49.2 Ovs) By West Indies Women vs Sri Lanka Women
