Sri Lanka will face England in the third and final T20I of the series on Tuesday, February 3, at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. With England already leading the series 2-0, the hosts will be desperate to avoid a clean sweep and finish the series on a positive note.

Led by Dasun Shanaka, Sri Lanka have struggled to match the intensity of England in the first two matches. The batting lineup has not been able to perform well, and the bowlers have struggled to restrict England’s aggressive fielding. With the T20 World Cup looming, Sri Lanka would be looking to perform well in all departments and regain some confidence.

England, on the other hand, have been in complete command. The batting lineup has been dominating the show, and the bowlers have been supporting them well at crucial times. This match will be their final official outing before the T20 World Cup warm-up games, and they will want to maintain their winning momentum.

SL vs ENG: Head-to-Head in T20Is

• Matches Played: 16
  
• Sri Lanka Won: 4
  
• England Won: 12
  
• Tied / No Result: 0

SL vs ENG: Pitch Report

The pitch at Pallekele has been good for batting, but rain has been a concern. In the first two matches, England won comfortably while chasing. With possible interruptions again, captains winning the toss are likely to bowl first, as chasing becomes easier in shortened games.

See Also: U19 World Cup 2026, 2nd Semi-Final: IND U19 vs AFG U19 head-to-head, pitch report and predicted playing XIs

SL vs ENG: Predicted Playing XIs

Sri Lanka (SL):

Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Janith Liyanage, Charith Asalanka, Kamil Mishara, Pavan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Matheesha Pathirana, Eshan Malinga

England (ENG):

Tom Banton, Phil Salt (wk), Harry Brook (c), Jos Buttler, Jacob Bethell, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer

Sri Lanka will face England in the second T20I of the three-match series at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy on Sunday, February 1. After the first game was affected by rain, both teams will be keen to put in a stronger performance and gain control of the series.

Sri Lanka struggled in the opening match as they scored 133 in 16.2 overs. Even though Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis gave them a decent start, the rest of the batting failed, and the team was bowled out for a low score. Their bowling also lacked control, allowing England to stay comfortable during the chase. The hosts will be under pressure to improve in all departments if they want to keep the series alive.

England, on the other hand, had a solid outing. Their bowlers, in particular Sam Curran and Adil Rashid, kept things tight and then grabbed crucial wickets. With the bat, Phil Salt played positively during the powerplay and ensured England stayed ahead before rain ended the match. They will look to continue the same momentum in the second game.

SL vs ENG: Head-to-Head (T20Is)

• Matches Played: 15
• Sri Lanka Won: 4
• England Won: 11
• No Result: 0

SL vs ENG: Pitch Report

The pitch at Pallekele usually offers a fair contest between bat and ball. However, rain is expected again, which could influence team decisions. Bowling first after winning the toss might be the safer option, as chasing teams can plan better under DLS conditions.

See Also: U19 World Cup 2026, Super 6, Match 12: IND U19 vs PAK U19 head-to-head, pitch report and predicted playing XIs

SL vs ENG: Predicted Playing XIs

Sri Lanka (SL):

Dasun Shanaka (c), Kusal Mendis (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Dhananjaya de Silva, Janith Liyanage, Eshan Malinga, Charith Asalanka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana

England (ENG):

Harry Brook (c), Jos Buttler, Phil Salt (wk), Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Sam Curran, Adil Rashid, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer

After a rain-affected result in the series opener, Sri Lanka will once again host England for the second T20I of the three-match series at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy on Sunday, February 1. The Lankan side struggled in the first match, being bowled out for just 133 in 16.2 overs despite a promising start from Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka. Their bowling also failed to contain the English batsmen on a tricky wicket. Sri Lanka will be aiming for a much-improved performance to stay alive in the series.

England, meanwhile, executed their plans well in the opening encounter. Sam Curran and Adil Rashid were particularly effective with the ball, taking three wickets each and keeping the hosts under pressure. With the bat, Phil Salt capitalized on the powerplay to set the tone for the innings. The Three Lions maintained control throughout, ensuring that the rain-affected result favored them. England will look to continue their dominance and secure an unassailable lead in the series on Sunday.

See Also: Watch: Jaw-dropping rebound catch breaks internet from BAN vs ZIM U19 World Cup 2026

SL vs ENG, 2nd T20I: Live Streaming Details

SL vs ENG, 2nd T20I: Probable Playing XI

Sri Lanka (SL):

Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (WK), Janith Liyanage, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dasun Shanaka (C), Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Eshan Malinga

England (ENG):

Phil Salt (WK), Jos Buttler, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook (C), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer

Sri Lanka and England begin their three-match T20I series with the first game set to be played at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy on Friday, January 30. With the T20 World Cup 2026 just around the corner, both teams will treat this series as an important final tune-up.

England arrives with confidence after turning things around in the ODI series. After losing the opener, they won the next two matches to clinch the series and will now look to carry that momentum into the shortest format. This T20I series is England’s final competitive outing before the World Cup, so it is a chance to finalise combinations and roles.

Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will be looking to start strong at home. They have had some mixed results in their recent T20Is and would look to increase their consistency levels. With experienced players in both the batting and bowling departments, the hosts know they need a complete team effort to challenge a strong England side.

SL vs ENG: Head-to-Head in T20Is

• Matches Played: 14
  
• Sri Lanka Won: 4
  
• England Won: 10
  
• Tied / No Result: 0

SL vs ENG: Pitch Report

The surface at Pallekele usually offers a fair contest between bat and ball. The batting is relatively easier in the first innings, but the pitch does slow down a bit in the latter stages. The average first-innings score at this venue is approximately 160, and it might be a good to prefer batting first.

See Also: No more India vs Pakistan rivalry? This team emerges as new competitor for India ahead of T20 World Cup 2026

SL vs ENG: Predicted Playing XIs

Sri Lanka (SL):

Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis (wk), Janith Liyanage, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dasun Shanaka (c), Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Dushmantha Chameera

England:

Phil Salt (wk), Jos Buttler, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook (c), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Adil Rashid, Josh Tongue, Luke Wood

Sri Lankan cricketer Pavan Rathnayake made his international debut through his first ODI match against England at R. Premadasa Stadium. The 23-year-old batsman demonstrated exceptional maturity during his chase of 358 runs by scoring 121 runs at the match. 

Young batter stands tall after early collapse

Sri Lanka faced a challenging start to their innings after Harry Brook and Joe Root scored centuries which set a massive target for them. Rathnayake walked in with the game slipping away but responded with calm intent, rebuilding the innings through the middle overs. He used intelligent methods to change the batting order while he selected specific times to make aggressive plays which kept his team from falling behind their target. 

Rathnayake reached his century mark during the 43rd over when he scored his first run which made him smile with happiness for this special moment that happened in his fourth ODI match. His century came off 104 balls and stood out for its maturity rather than reckless strokeplay.

ALSO SEE: Watch: Harry Brook mimics Stone Cold Steve Austin celebration after century in SL vs ENG 3rd ODI

Who is Pavan Rathnayake?

Rathnayake is a batter who uses his left hand for batting while he demonstrates bowling skills through his ability to bowl both off-break and leg-break deliveries. The player had scored a total of 73 runs from three One Day International matches before this match but his domestic List A statistics showed that he possessed greater batting potential. The player achieved his seventh One Day International century with this performance which resulted in him crossing 2.600 List A career runs.

The young batsman stood out as the top performer for Sri Lanka despite the team being bowled out for 304 and Rathnayake getting out to Sam Curran while England won the match by 53 runs. His performance under difficult circumstances demonstrated his ability to succeed in future endeavors while he showed potential to become a regular player for Sri Lankas One Day International team.

England captain Harry Brook produced a masterclass innings against Sri Lanka in the third ODI on January 27 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Leading from the front, Brook scored an unbeaten 136 off just 66 balls, powering England to a massive 357/3 in their 50 overs. His aggressive approach and flawless shot selection put the Sri Lankan bowlers under relentless pressure, setting the tone for a dominant batting display. This innings demonstrated his ability to take charge in high-stakes matches and anchor a formidable total for his side.

After reaching his century, Brook celebrated in a highly entertaining and unique manner that caught the attention of fans and commentators alike. Removing both gloves, he raised them high before punching his fists together, replicating the iconic entrance gesture of WWE legend Stone Cold Steve Austin, who famously performed it with beer bottles. The crowd erupted in applause as Brook’s celebration combined both flair and humor, reflecting his confidence and charisma on the field, adding a memorable moment to an already remarkable innings.

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This century marked Brook’s third in ODI cricket and highlighted his rapid progression in the international arena. At a time when global cricket boasts a wealth of emerging talent, Brook’s innings stood out for its combination of power, timing, and temperament. His ability to dominate attacks and play match-defining innings has positioned him as one of the most exciting young cricketers in the world. With performances like this, Brook continues to cement his reputation as a leading figure in England’s batting lineup.

Watch the video here;

Harry Brook celebrating with what looks like a Stone Cold Steve Austin beer smash pic.twitter.com/cIEtJWynOq

— Cameron Ponsonby (@cameronponsonby) January 27, 2026

England scored 357 in their 50 overs

England’s innings in the third ODI was dominated by a sensational partnership between Harry Brook and Joe Root. Brook, in blistering form, smashed 11 fours and nine sixes on his way to an unbeaten 136, while Root anchored the innings with a composed 111 off 108 balls, including nine fours and a six. Jacob Bethell added a steady 65 off 72 deliveries, helping England post a commanding total. For Sri Lanka, only three bowlers managed to claim a single wicket each. This match served as the series decider after both sides had won one game each.

Sri Lanka had won the first ODI by 19 runs, with Kusal Mendis scoring a brilliant 93 and Dunith Wellalage delivering an economical spell of 2/41 in 10 overs. England bounced back in the second ODI, chasing down 220 with ease, guided by Joe Root’s composed 75. After the ODI series, both teams will compete in a three-match T20I series, starting January 30, with the second game on February 1 and the final match scheduled for February 3.

Sri Lanka and England are set for a high-stakes showdown in the third and final ODI at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Tuesday, January 27. With the series evenly poised at 1-1, the decider promises a tense contest as both sides aim to finish the tour on a winning note. Sri Lanka began strongly by claiming a 19-run win in the opening match, using home conditions effectively and showing composure in key moments of the game.

England, however, responded in emphatic fashion in the second ODI under the leadership of Harry Brook. A masterful batting effort from Joe Root helped the visitors level the series and regain momentum. With everything to play for in the final match, both teams will be eager for their top-order batters to step up and post commanding totals, knowing that one decisive performance could tilt the series in their favour.

See Also: PCB under pressure as India-Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 boycott could trigger $38 million legal battle

SL vs ENG, 3rd ODI: Live Streaming Details

SL vs ENG, 3rd ODI: Probable Playing XI

Sri Lanka (SL):

Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis(w), Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka(c), Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Dunith Wellalage, Pramod Madushan, Jeffrey Vandersay, Asitha Fernando

England (ENG):

Rehan Ahmed, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook(c), Jos Buttler(w), Will Jacks, Sam Curran, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Adil Rashid

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place across India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, marking the 10th edition of the prestigious global tournament. India enter the competition as the defending champions, having lifted the title in the previous edition. With world-class venues and subcontinental conditions in play, the tournament is expected to deliver high-octane cricket and intense rivalries. Fans around the world are gearing up for a month-long spectacle featuring the best T20 talent from across the globe.

A total of 20 teams will compete in the 2026 edition, divided into four groups of five teams each. Co-hosts India have been slotted into Group A, where they will face Namibia, Netherlands, USA, and arch-rivals Pakistan in the group stage. Each team will play the others once, with the top two sides from every group advancing to the Super 8 stage. This phase will further intensify the competition as teams battle for places in the knockout rounds.

See Also: Watch: Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube practicing right after India's emphatic win against New Zealand in 3rd T20I

Following the Super 8s, the tournament will move into the knockout phase, beginning with the semifinals. The first semifinal is scheduled for March 4, followed by the second on March 5. The winners will then lock horns in the grand final on March 8 to decide the new world champions. As the countdown to the marquee event begins, fans eagerly await a closer look at the group-wise squads shaping up for what promises to be a thrilling World Cup.

Men's T20 World Cup 2026: Group A squads

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief, Mohsin Naqvi, has broken the silence on his meeting with the Prime Minister of the country on their future for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka. Several news outlets have claimed that the 2009 champions may look to boycott the event after the removal of Bangladesh from the 20-team competition.

The final verdict was about to come in the evening of January 26, but Naqvi informed them that they would take the final call either on January 30 or by February 02, which will be less than a week before their opening encounter against the Netherlands, scheduled to take place in Colombo.  

See Also: Watch: “Knows brutality…” - Rajeev Shukla reacts to Bangladesh’s removal from T20 World Cup 2026

“Had a productive meeting with Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif. Briefed him on the ICC matter, and he directed that we resolve it while keeping all options on the table. It was agreed that the final decision will be taken either on Friday or next Monday.” Naqvi revealed in a post on his X account (formerly known as Twitter).

Pakistan to take final decision on T20 World Cup 2026 on this date

Pakistan, due to the mutual agreement with the BCCI, has got its T20 World Cup matches in Sri Lanka, including the mouth-watering clash against India on February 15 at the R. Premadasa Cricket Stadium in Colombo. But after the removal of the Bangladesh Cricket Board, they have decided to change their route on the thought process, which has been a surprising aspect in the last couple of days.

Mohsin Naqvi says the decision on Pakistan's matches for the T20 World Cup on Friday or next Monday. The main point of debate is the India vs Pakistan match. pic.twitter.com/oMPr7wU09I

— Subhayan Chakraborty (@CricSubhayan) January 26, 2026

BCCI decided to release Bangladesh left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL 2026, which saw BCB deciding not to travel to India for the T20 World Cup due to security concerns. The ICC made it clear that Bangladesh would need to play all their group stage games in India; they would replace them, which they eventually did with Scotland.

The current reports have claimed that Pakistan may also look to forfeit the encounter against India, which will see the home side getting two points, but the PCB needs to face the consequences of that, which could come as a sanction for the upcoming bilateral series.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi say about Pakistan’s participation in the T20 World Cup 2026?

Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that a final decision on Pakistan’s participation in the T20 World Cup 2026 will be taken between January 30 and February 2, following his meeting with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

Why is Pakistan reconsidering its participation in the T20 World Cup 2026?

Reports suggest Pakistan may reconsider after Bangladesh’s removal from the tournament, which raised concerns and prompted a review of their own plans.

Where are Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 matches scheduled to be played?

Pakistan’s matches, including the high-profile clash against India on February 15, are scheduled to be played in Sri Lanka, as per the mutual agreement with the BCCI.

What impact could a boycott or forfeiture have on Pakistan cricket?

If Pakistan decides to forfeit matches, it could face ICC sanctions or affect future bilateral series, making the final decision crucial for the team’s standing.

What was discussed in Mohsin Naqvi’s meeting with the Prime Minister?

Naqvi briefed PM Nawaz Sharif on the ICC situation, and it was agreed that Pakistan would keep all options open and finalize the decision within a few days.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 trophy has arrived in Sri Lanka, the co-hosts of the tournament, and it was great to watch the arrival ceremony of the trophy. 

The three-match ODI series between the hosts Sri Lanka and the visitors England started on Thursday (January 22) at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Before the beginning of the ODI match, the T20 World Cup trophy officially arrived at the R Premadasa Stadium.

See Also: ICC security delegates reach Eden Gardens ahead of T20 World Cup 2026

A grand entry for ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 trophy in Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan Air Force paratroopers brought a show to the on-field cricket fans, as the trophy arrived with a great ceremony. We are less than three weeks away from the beginning of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

What a grand entry for the #T20WorldCup trophy 😅pic.twitter.com/HBHTMuEH2p

— Cricbuzz (@cricbuzz) January 22, 2026

ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026: How many matches will Sri Lanka host?

India and Sri Lanka will jointly host the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 from February 7 to March 8, 2026. India has five venues to host the tournament, while Sri Lanka has three venues to host it. Apart from R Premadasa Stadium, SSC Cricket Ground and Pallekele Cricket Stadium are the other two Sri Lankan venues for the upcoming 10th ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. 

Out of 55 matches of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, Sri Lanka will host at least 20 matches. If Pakistan qualify for the Semi-final and Final, R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo will host the first Semi-final and the Final of the tournament. So, if Sri Lanka hosts one of the Semi-finals and the Final, the country will host 22 matches in the tournament. By calculating Semi-final and the Final, R Premadasa Stadium will host 10 games, Pallekele Cricket Stadium will host seven matches, and SSC Cricket Ground will handle the other five fixtures. 

Apart from the complete Group B fixture, where Sri Lanka will face Australia, Zimbabwe, Ireland, and Oman, Sri Lanka will also host all Pakistan’s fixtures in the group stage, who are in Group A along with the co-hosts India, Netherlands, Namibia, and the United States. Furthermore, Sri Lanka will host the complete Group 2 fixtures in the Super Eight stage.