Hand-picked stories you can't miss
Sri Lanka will face England in the third match of the Pakistan ODI tri-series 2026 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on October 22. Led by Kusal Mendis, the Islanders will aim to bounce back from their opening-match defeat against Pakistan and register their first win of the tournament. The contest will be an important opportunity for Sri Lanka to assess their combinations as they continue preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Sri Lanka will have to manage their batting resources carefully after opener Pathum Nissanka was ruled out of the tri-series with a hamstring injury. Lahiru Udara has reportedly been named as his replacement, while former captain Charith Asalanka is also absent from the squad. Sri Lanka are expected to rely on their experienced captain, emerging middle-order batters and a varied bowling attack to challenge England.
Lahiru Udara could open the innings following Nissanka’s injury-enforced absence. Although he is yet to make his ODI debut, he has international experience in Tests and T20Is. His opportunity at the top of the order would be a significant test, particularly against England’s new-ball bowlers. Udara will need to show patience early before using scoring opportunities to build a strong opening partnership.
Kamil Mishara is another strong candidate to open the innings. The left-handed batter can complement Udara by offering a different angle against England’s seamers. Sri Lanka will need their opening pair to avoid losing early wickets and provide a platform for the middle order. Mishara’s ability to rotate the strike will be just as important as his boundary-hitting.
Kusal Mendis is expected to bat at No. 3 and take responsibility for guiding the innings. The captain has valuable experience against England and can adapt his approach according to the match situation. If Sri Lanka lose an early wicket, he will need to rebuild; if the openers provide a solid start, he can accelerate and put pressure on the opposition. His wicketkeeping duties will also make him central to Sri Lanka’s performance.
Pavan Rathnayake could be a key figure in the middle order. The right-hander has the potential to play the anchor role while keeping the scoreboard moving. Sri Lanka need a dependable contribution from this position, especially against an England attack that will look to exploit any uncertainty following the early overs.
Kamindu Mendis is likely to bat at No. 5, adding flexibility and composure to the lineup. His ability to play spin and pace makes him a valuable option during the middle overs. He can rotate the strike when wickets fall and increase the scoring rate when the situation allows. His contribution could prove decisive if Sri Lanka need to recover from a difficult start.
Janith Liyanage is expected to strengthen the middle order. His ability to contribute with the bat and offer an additional bowling option gives the team useful flexibility. Liyanage could be particularly important in the final 15 overs, when Sri Lanka will need to convert a steady platform into a competitive total.
Dasun Shanaka could slot in at No. 7 as a pace-bowling all-rounder. His power-hitting can help Sri Lanka finish strongly, while his medium pace provides another option for captain Mendis. Shanaka’s experience in pressure situations will be valuable against an England team capable of scoring quickly.
Dunith Wellalage is expected to feature as the spin-bowling all-rounder. His left-arm orthodox spin can help control the middle overs, and his batting adds depth to the lineup. Wellalage will need to keep England’s aggressive batters quiet while remaining ready to contribute useful runs.
Maheesh Theekshana could lead Sri Lanka’s spin attack alongside Wellalage. His variations and ability to bowl economically make him a useful option against England’s right- and left-handed batters. Theekshana will be tasked with building pressure and creating opportunities for wickets during the middle overs.
Asitha Fernando is likely to spearhead the pace attack with the new ball. His ability to move the ball and attack the stumps could be important against England’s top order. Sri Lanka will look to him for early breakthroughs before the batters settle into their innings.
Eshan Malinga could complete the XI after an encouraging performance against Pakistan in the opening match. His pace and wicket-taking ability would give Sri Lanka another attacking option. He will be expected to support Asitha Fernando and execute his plans during the death overs.
cricket
cricket
cricket