Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to field against England in their T20 World Cup Super Eight clash in Pallekele, backing their recent success under lights at the venue to revive their campaign.
Captain Dasun Shanaka said his side were keen to chase once more, drawing confidence from their commanding victory over Australia here six days ago, when Pathum Nissanka’s unbeaten century powered a comfortable pursuit of 181. With heavy rain in the build-up leaving parts of the outfield damp and patchy, Sri Lanka hope early movement and scoreboard pressure can work in their favour.
The hosts made two changes to their XI. Fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera returned in place of Pramod Madushan after being rested for the defeat to Zimbabwe, adding extra pace and experience to the attack. At the top of the order, Kamil Mishara replaced Kusal Perera as Sri Lanka continue to search for a settled opening combination alongside the in-form Nissanka.
England, meanwhile, named an unchanged side for the fourth successive match. Harry Brook, leading on his 27th birthday, reiterated the need for bravery after his team stumbled into the second stage of the tournament. Jamie Overton retains his place as the seam-bowling allrounder, while Jacob Bethell is expected to play primarily as a batter due to a cut on his bowling hand that may limit his overs.
The two sides know each other well, having concluded a three-match T20I series in Pallekele earlier this month, which England swept 3-0. However, with Sri Lanka’s chasing confidence high and conditions potentially favouring the bowlers early on, the hosts will believe this is an opportunity to turn the tables when it matters most.