In a highly anticipated Super 8 showdown of the T20 World Cup 2026 at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy, Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka called correctly at the toss and elected to field first against England. The match, originally under threat from rain, is proceeding under clear skies, setting the stage for an intense battle between two in-form sides.
Shanaka, exuding confidence after his team’s recent performances, explained the decision: ‘We wanted to bowl first. We’ve been chasing well lately and are comfortable doing so. The boys are performing strongly, confidence is high, and playing at home adds to the thrill. Injuries have hurt us, but replacements have stepped up brilliantly.’ He highlighted key changes, with Dushmantha Chameera returning in place of Pramod Madushan and Kamil Mishara replacing Kusal Perera.
England skipper Harry Brook, who also preferred bowling first, remained optimistic. ‘It’s a fresh game. We need to beat them and pile on the pressure. We’ve had a strong series here against them, and with three prior matches on this pitch boosting our familiarity, we’re ready for the challenge.’ On the pitch conditions, Brook added, ‘Honestly, they all look similar here. We’ll see how it plays early and aim to build a balanced total.’
Sri Lanka’s playing XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka (c), Dunith Wellalage, Dushan Hemantha, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka.
England’s playing XI: Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (wk), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Harry Brook (c), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid.
As the two teams vie for crucial points in the Super 8 stage, fans are bracing for a thriller on this familiar Pallekele surface, known for its balanced nature favoring both bat and ball.