Colombo is set to host a thrilling start to the three-match ODI series between England and Sri Lanka on Thursday at the R. Premadasa Stadium. England has unveiled its playing XI, spotlighting a surprise inclusion in opener Jack Crowley, who returns after 25 months away from the format.
Crowley, 27, partners Ben Duckett at the top of the order. His last ODI appearance came against West Indies on December 9, 2023, where he unfortunately failed to open his account. In his limited eight-match career, Crowley has notched up 199 runs, including two fifties, with an unbeaten 58 as his best score. This comeback offers him a chance to cement his spot in the white-ball setup.
The middle order looks rock-solid with Joe Root at number three, Jacob Bethell at four, and skipper Harry Brook at five. Jos Buttler follows as wicketkeeper-batter, backed by all-rounder Will Jacks. Sam Curran, fresh off impressive league form with both bat and ball, adds firepower lower down.
Pace duties fall to Jamie Overton, while spinners Liam Dawson and Adil Rashid complete the attack. On a pitch expected to favor spin, Rashid and Dawson could prove decisive for England’s campaign.
Sri Lanka announced their 17-member squad just a day prior, led by Charith Asalanka, who takes over ODI captaincy after relinquishing T20I duties ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
England’s Playing XI: Jack Crowley, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook (c), Jos Buttler (wk), Will Jacks, Sam Curran, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Adil Rashid.
Sri Lanka Squad: Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Pavan Rathnayake, Dhananjaya de Silva, Zenith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jeffrey Vandersay, Maheesh Theekshana, Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Pramod Madushan, Isitha Malinga.
Fans are buzzing with anticipation as these teams clash in what promises to be a competitive series opener.