Sri Lanka vs England — ODI Series Preview | Both Squads | Where to Watch
A highly anticipated three-match One Day International (ODI) series between Sri Lanka and England begins today at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo, marking England’s first ODI tour to Sri Lanka in over seven years. The first ball is scheduled for 2:30 pm local time (9:00 am GMT/2:30 pm IST).
Both sides arrive with very different recent fortunes — Sri Lanka riding confidence at home, and England seeking revival after a tough Ashes campaign and criticism over team discipline and form.
Sri Lanka Squad — Balanced & Experienced
Sri Lanka have named a 17-man squad for the ODI series, led by Charith Asalanka (captain). Most of the core experienced campaigners remain, with a mix of youth and seasoned pros across batting, pace and spin departments:
Sri Lanka ODI Squad:
- Charith Asalanka (c)
- Pathum Nissanka
- Kamil Mishara
- Kusal Mendis
- Sadeera Samarawickrama
- Pavan Rathnayake
- Dhananjaya de Silva
- Janith Liyanage
- Kamindu Mendis
- Dunith Wellalage
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Jeffrey Vandersay
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Milan Rathnayake
- Asitha Fernando
- Pramod Madushan
- Eshan Malinga
Key Sri Lankan strengths:
- Spin balance: Hasaranga and Theekshana provide match-winning spin options on local pitches.
- Top order firepower: Nissanka and Mendis can anchor or accelerate, depending on conditions.
Sri Lanka will be keen to build momentum – they have enjoyed a string of home ODI series victories in recent years.
England Squad — New Look & Hungry
England have selected a strong 15-man ODI squad that blends senior names with exciting young talent.
England ODI Squad:
- Harry Brook (c)
- Jos Buttler (wk)
- Tom Banton (wk)
- Zak Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Joe Root
- Jacob Bethell
- Will Jacks
- Sam Curran
- Rehan Ahmed
- Brydon Carse
- Liam Dawson
- Jamie Overton
- Adil Rashid
- Luke Wood
Notable storylines for England:
- Harry Brook leads the side amid recent off-field scrutiny but remains focused on restoring team morale.
- Joe Root and Jacob Bethell bring stability and recent form with the bat.
- Sam Curran and Adil Rashid provide critical bowling depth.
England are missing some big names like Jofra Archer and Josh Tongue, who are in the T20 World Cup frame but not part of this ODI tour.
🆚 Head-to-Head: Close but Competitive
Historically, Sri Lanka and England have shared tight ODI battles. Across recent matches between these sides:
- In the last 5 ODIs, each has won twice, with one washout.
- At the Premadasa Stadium, Sri Lanka have enjoyed a dominant record in previous meetings.
This sets up a fascinating tactical challenge: England’s powerful batting lineup versus Sri Lanka’s home conditions and spin resources.
🎯 Players to Watch
Sri Lanka
- Pathum Nissanka – Consistent top-order run producer.
- Maheesh Theekshana – Can turn matches with tight spin bowling.
England
- Joe Root – In terrific form, capable of anchoring an innings.
- Harry Brook – Leading from the front in challenging circumstances.
- Sam Curran & Adil Rashid – Key bowling options to challenge SL’s batting.
📍 What’s at Stake
- England want to shake off disappointing away form and build confidence ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, which Sri Lanka co-host.
- Sri Lanka aim to reaffirm their reputation in ODIs at home and continue strong spin-friendly performances from recent seasons.
With three intense one-day battles ahead (Jan 22, 24 & 27) — starting today — fans across Sri Lanka, the UK and cricketing nations will be glued to the action.📺
📺 Where to Watch
Matches are live on TNT Sports and discovery+ in many regions, with streaming available on FanCode in India and local broadcasters elsewhere. For Dialog tv and Peo Tv users the match will be live telecasted on Ten – Cricket.
