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Sri Lanka vs England, 1st ODI Commentary, Live Updates
SL vs ENG, 2026 - ODI Live Commentary
Sri Lanka vs England Scorecard
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1st ODI R.Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
, Jan 22, 2026
% Chance to Win
SL
ENG
Inn Break
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29.1
1
Jamie Overton To Janith Liyanage
1 run.
End Of The Over 29 : 140/4
10 Runs
- 028.1
- 128.2
- 128.3
- 428.4
- 428.5
- 028.6
K. Mendis
50 (62)
J. Liyanage
5 (8)
R. Ahmed
6-0-37-1
28.6
0
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
Flat and fuller, on off, Kusal pushes it to cover.
28.5
4
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
FOUR! FIFTY FOR KUSAL MENDIS! Off 61 balls. This is his 35th ODI half century. Pitched way too full, on the stumps, Kusal Mendis jumps out of the crease and hammers it to the left of long on for a cracking boundary to get to his milestone.
28.4
4
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
FOUR! Excellent shot! Full-length delivery, outside off, Kusal Mendis lunges and drives it crisply toward the left of short extra cover for four runs.
28.3
1
Rehan Ahmed To Janith Liyanage
A tad fuller, on off, Janith skips down the track and drives it to mid off for a single.
28.2
1
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
Tossed up, on off, Kusal drives it to wide of cover for a single.
28.1
0
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
Full, on off, Mendis pushes it to cover.
End Of The Over 28 : 130/4
1 Runs
- 027.1
- 127.2
- 027.3
- 027.4
- 027.5
- 027.6
J. Liyanage
4 (7)
K. Mendis
41 (57)
J. Overton
6-0-31-0
27.6
0
Jamie Overton To Janith Liyanage
Short of a length, angling in, Janith ducks under it and lets it travel to the keeper.
27.5
0
Jamie Overton To Janith Liyanage
On a hard length, on the stumps, Janith Liyanage fends it away.
27.4
0
Jamie Overton To Janith Liyanage
Back of a length, on off, Janith dabs it back to the bowler.
27.3
0
Jamie Overton To Janith Liyanage
Fuller, around the pads of the batter, Janith flicks it to square leg.
27.2
1
Jamie Overton To Kusal Mendis
Short, on the stumps, Kusal nudges it to mid-wicket for a single.
27.1
0
Jamie Overton To Kusal Mendis
Bumper, just outside off, Kusal crouches low and makes a leave.
End Of The Over 27 : 129/4
8 Runs
- 126.1
- 226.2
- W 26.3
- 1 WD 26.4
- 026.4
- 426.5
- 026.6
J. Liyanage
4 (3)
K. Mendis
40 (55)
R. Ahmed
5-0-27-1
26.6
0
Rehan Ahmed To Janith Liyanage
Short, outside off, Janith punches it to cover.
26.5
4
Rehan Ahmed To Janith Liyanage
FOUR! ATTACKED! Serves it full, does Rehan. It is the googly, outside off, Janith jumps out of the crease and heaves it over mid on for a boundary. Not exactly off the middle, but he gets off the mark.
26.4
0
Rehan Ahmed To Janith Liyanage
Nice and full, around off, Janith leans ahead and taps it to point.
26.4
wd
Rehan Ahmed To Janith Liyanage
WIDE! Short, down the leg side, Janith misses his flicks.
England keep picking up wickets at regular intervals. 97/2 becomes 124/4 for Sri Lanka. Janith Liyanage walks in at number 6.
26.3
W
Rehan Ahmed To Charith Asalanka OUT!
OUT! TAKEN! Rehan Ahmed gets his name written on the wicket list. A bit flatter at 89 kph, this is floated full outside off. It turns back into the batter as Charith gets right across to sweep, but he only manages a faint top edge as the ball skids on. The ball brushes off his bicep and balloons over the keeper. Buttler has no idea where the ball is, but Brook moves smartly to his left from leg slip to take the catch. Mendis remains stranded at the other end, and sees wickets falling around him. Charith Asalanka departs on 17 (16). Sri Lanka are 124/4.
26.2
2
Rehan Ahmed To Charith Asalanka
Fuller, just outside off, Charith Asalanka lunges to defend it to the off side, but gets the outside edge and it rolls away toward short third. SIngle taken.
26.1
1
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
Full, on off, Kusal drives it through cover for one.
End Of The Over 26 : 121/3
10 Runs
- 425.1
- 425.2
- 025.3
- 125.4
- 025.5
- 125.6
K. Mendis
39 (54)
C. Asalanka
15 (14)
J. Overton
5-0-30-0
25.6
1
Jamie Overton To Kusal Mendis
Back of a length, around off, Mendis fends it to cover-point for one.
25.5
0
Jamie Overton To Kusal Mendis
On a length, angling in, on middle and leg. Kusal Mendis rocks back and looks to flick but misses the connection and the ball thumps the pad. The appeal goes around for LBW, but the umpire shakes his head. Maybe doing a bit too much to slide down leg.
25.4
1
Jamie Overton To Charith Asalanka
Full and outside off, Asalanka tries to drive it but gets the outside edge once again. The ball bounces off toward the right of the deep third for a single.
25.3
0
Jamie Overton To Charith Asalanka
Fuller, angling in on off, Asalanka defends it down.
25.2
4
Jamie Overton To Charith Asalanka
FOUR! This time, it's from the middle of the willow! On a hard length, outside off. Charith Asalanka accepts the width and punches it over the cover region for a boundary.
25.1
4
Jamie Overton To Charith Asalanka
FOUR! Off the edge! Full-length delivery, outside off. Charith Asalanka looks to drive at it but gets nicked on the outside edge and the ball rolls away toward the deep third fence for the boundary.
Halfway through the first innings and it is beautifully poised. England have punched back strongly, conceding just 14/1 in the last 5 overs. And with that, pace is back on. Jamie Overton returns into the attack. 4-0-20-0 so far. He replaces Adil Rashid.
End Of The Over 25 : 111/3
3 Runs
- 124.1
- 124.2
- 024.3
- 124.4
- 024.5
- 024.6
K. Mendis
38 (52)
C. Asalanka
6 (10)
R. Ahmed
4-0-19-0
24.6
0
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
Short, and outside off, Kusal Mendis steers it to short third and gets a single.
24.5
0
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
Fuller, angling in, on off, Kusal pushes it to cover.
24.4
1
Rehan Ahmed To Charith Asalanka
Short, just outside off, Asalanka cuts it gently toward the left of the point fielder and gets a quick single.
24.3
0
Rehan Ahmed To Charith Asalanka
Full, on off, Asalanka eases it to mid off.
24.2
1
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
Full, on middle, Mendis sweeps it crisply toward the right of the deep square leg fielder and gets across to take the single.
24.1
1
Rehan Ahmed To Charith Asalanka
Fuller, just outside off, Asalanka drives it to the right of the short cover fielder, who dives and makes a half stop. The batter gets a single.
End Of The Over 24 : 108/3
6 Runs
- 423.1
- 023.2
- 123.3
- 123.4
- 023.5
- 023.6
K. Mendis
37 (49)
C. Asalanka
4 (7)
A. Rashid
7-0-30-2
23.6
0
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
With some flight, fuller, on middle, Mendis lunges and pushes it to cover.
23.5
0
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
Short and outside off, Mendis frees his arm to cut it but finds the fielder in the point region.
23.4
1
Adil Rashid To Charith Asalanka
Full, on middle, Charith gets on his front foot and nudges it to wide of short mid-wicket for a single.
23.3
1
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
A touch short, around off, Mendis punches it to sweeper cover for a single.
23.2
0
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
Full, on off, Mendis eases it to point.
23.1
4
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
FOUR! SHOT! Short of a length, on middle, turning away. Mendis gets on the back foot and pulls it gently to guide the ball to the right of the short mid-wicket fielder and it races away toward the fence for four runs.
End Of The Over 23 : 102/3
4 Runs
- 122.1
- 022.2
- 122.3
- 122.4
- 022.5
- 122.6
K. Mendis
32 (44)
C. Asalanka
3 (6)
R. Ahmed
3-0-16-0
22.6
1
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
Short, on middle, Mendis opens his stance and pulls it hard to the left of the deep mid-wicket fielder for a single.
22.5
0
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
Full, around off, Mendis eases it to point for no runs.
22.4
1
Rehan Ahmed To Charith Asalanka
Fuller, on off, Asalanka shuffles a bit across the stump and sweeps it through backward square leg for a single.
22.3
1
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
Pitches it up, does Rehan, on leg, Mendis flicks it to the right of the mid on fielder for a quick single. 100 UP FOR SRI LANKA!
22.2
0
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
Much fuller, on off, Kusal pushes it to the left of the bowler.
22.1
1
Rehan Ahmed To Charith Asalanka
Fuller, on leg, Charith Asalanka lunges and pushes it to cover for a quick single.
End Of The Over 22 : 98/3
1 Runs
- 021.1
- W 21.2
- 021.3
- 021.4
- 021.5
- 121.6
C. Asalanka
1 (4)
K. Mendis
30 (40)
A. Rashid
6-0-24-2
21.6
1
Adil Rashid To Charith Asalanka
Short and just outside off, turning it back to the left-hander. Asalanka rocks back and pats it to cover for a single. End of an succesfull over from Adil Rashid. A wicket and only a single from it!
21.5
0
Adil Rashid To Charith Asalanka
Adil dishes one on a fuller length, lands it around off and turns it into the batter sharply. Charith Asalanka drags his hands in front to sweep, but misses to connect. The ball passes close to his wristband and then raps the the front pad. Another shout for LBW, but the finger stays down. This one looks a lot closer and Rashid is keen. Brook walks up to have a word with his bowler and eventually decides to take the review. There is a suspicion of glove involved, so the third umpire checks the UltraEdge. And there it is, a clear spike as the ball brushes the glove. The on-field decision stands, and England burn a review.
21.4
0
Adil Rashid To Charith Asalanka
Appeal for LBW, but turned down this time! Fuller, on middle and leg, Charith Asalanka misses his flick and the ball pings on the pad. It seems the ball is going down the leg side and hence, England do not review it.
21.3
0
Adil Rashid To Charith Asalanka
Full, around off, Asalanka defends it down the deck.
Another partnership broken by Adil Rashid. He continues to chip away at the wickets. Just a couple of deliveries earlier, the on air graphic showed Rashid sitting just behind Matt Henry on the list of most ODI wickets in 2025. Now then, the skipper, Charith Asalanka is in at number 5.
21.2
W
Adil Rashid To Dhananjaya de Silva OUT!
OUT! LBW! Adil breaks the 43-run partnership. Way too full, almost a full toss, speared in around middle. Dhananjaya de Silva drops to sweep but misjudges the line completely. The ball skids past the angled bat, thuds into the front pad and up goes the appeal from the English players. The umpire obliges and raises his finger instantly. Dhananjaya de Silva walks off without reviewing as it is too plumb in front. 10 (21) for de Silva and Sri Lanka are 97/3.
21.1
0
Adil Rashid To Dhananjaya de Silva
Full, on middle, de Silva brings his willow to the front fo his pad to defend it down.
End Of The Over 21 : 97/2
0 Runs
- 020.1
- 020.2
- 020.3
- 020.4
- 020.5
- 020.6
K. Mendis
30 (40)
de Silva
10 (19)
L. Dawson
6-1-23-0
20.6
0
Liam Dawson To Kusal Mendis
Flat and fuller, just outside off, Kusal eases it to cover for no runs. MAIDEN OVER BY DAWSON!
20.5
0
Liam Dawson To Kusal Mendis
Full, on off, Mendis eases it to extra cover.
20.4
0
Liam Dawson To Kusal Mendis
Pitches it up, does Dawson, on off, Mendis pushes it to the left of the bowler.
20.3
0
Liam Dawson To Kusal Mendis
Tossed up, on off, Mendis leans on the delivery and defends it to the off side for no runs.
20.2
0
Liam Dawson To Kusal Mendis
Flat and fuller, on off, Mendis drives it back to Dawson.
20.1
0
Liam Dawson To Kusal Mendis
Fuller, on middle, Kusal defends it back to the bowler.
A decent phase for Sri Lanka. They have scored 48/2 in the 11-20 over phase as these two batters are opening up slowly and steadily. Liam Dawson (5-0-23-0) to continue.
End Of The Over 20 : 97/2
7 Runs
- 119.1
- 119.2
- 019.3
- 419.4
- 019.5
- 119.6
K. Mendis
30 (34)
de Silva
10 (19)
A. Rashid
5-0-23-1
19.6
1
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
Lands it full and outside leg, Mendis sweeps it through backward square leg for a single.
19.5
0
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
Stump-to-stump, blocked straight off the front foot.
19.4
4
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
FOUR! Into the gap! Way too full, on the stumps and drifting onto the pads. Kusal Mendis gets down on one knee and nails the sweep to deep backward square leg, beating Rehan Ahmed running across from deep fine leg to his left.
19.3
0
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
At 79 kph, this full and on middle, Mendis leans on and smothers the spin.
19.2
1
Adil Rashid To Dhananjaya de Silva
Slides one down leg, on a fuller length, de Silva paddles it to deep backward square leg for one more.
19.1
1
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
Slows it up, full and around off, Mendis drives it down to long off for a single.
DRINKS BREAK! After a cautious start against the spinners, Kusal Mendis and Dhananjaya de Silva look well set now. Mendis has managed to pick up a few quick boundaries behind square, while de Silva has taken the safer route, showing restraint and choosing to play the spinners with care. These two have added 36 runs so far, and would like to bat through the middle overs. England’s over rate has been impressive, largely aided by operating with spin in tandem. They will be keen to strike with a wicket or two in quick succession and force the hosts into yet another rebuild. Adil Rashid (4-0-16-1) to continue after the break.
End Of The Over 19 : 90/2
1 Runs
- 118.1
- 018.2
- 018.3
- 018.4
- 018.5
- 018.6
de Silva
9 (18)
K. Mendis
24 (29)
L. Dawson
5-0-23-0
18.6
0
Liam Dawson To Dhananjaya de Silva
Slides one full and on middle and leg, Dhananjaya de Silva leans on and defends it to the off side.
18.5
0
Liam Dawson To Dhananjaya de Silva
Spins away from middle, on a length, at 88 kph. Dhananjaya de Silva prods half forward and fends it to cover.
18.4
0
Liam Dawson To Dhananjaya de Silva
At 91 kph, full around off, de Silva works it to mid on.
18.3
0
Liam Dawson To Dhananjaya de Silva
Full and quick, on the stumps, pushed back at the bowler.
18.2
0
Liam Dawson To Dhananjaya de Silva
Just short! Slightly shorter this time, full and on off. It holds on the surface and de Silva ends up chipping it on the bounce to extra cover.
18.1
1
Liam Dawson To Kusal Mendis
Pushed fuller, on middle, Mendis draws his front foot forward and drives it to long off for a single.
End Of The Over 18 : 89/2
7 Runs
- 117.1
- 017.2
- 017.3
- 117.4
- 417.5
- 117.6
K. Mendis
23 (28)
de Silva
9 (13)
A. Rashid
4-0-16-1
17.6
1
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
Short, outside off, Mendis slaps it past cover-point for a single.
17.5
4
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
FOUR! He has been very productive behind square! Not that short from Rashid, but outside off, Kusal Mendis hangs deep inside the crease and plays the late cut, beating Sam Curran's chase from short third.
17.4
1
Adil Rashid To Dhananjaya de Silva
Dropped short, outside off, slapped to the widish cover fielder for a single.
17.3
0
Adil Rashid To Dhananjaya de Silva
Sharp turn again, full and outside off, de Silva presses ahead to defend, but gets an outside edge. It is played with soft hands and hence, the ball rolls behind to Brook at first slip.
17.2
0
Adil Rashid To Dhananjaya de Silva
PEACH! At just 71 kph, Adil flights a leg break, full and around middle. Dhananjaya de Silva leans on to defend, but the ball spins across his bat and beats the outside edge.
17.1
1
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
Short, on leg, spinning across, Mendis rushes on the back foot and pulls it to deep mid-wicket for a single.
End Of The Over 17 : 82/2
11 Runs
- 116.1
- 016.2
- 016.3
- 5 WD 16.4
- 416.4
- 116.5
- 016.6
de Silva
8 (10)
K. Mendis
17 (25)
L. Dawson
4-0-22-0
16.6
0
Liam Dawson To Dhananjaya de Silva
Drops it short, on middle and leg, at 87 kph. Dhananjaya de Silva hangs back and tucks it to short mid-wicket. 11 runs off the over!
16.5
1
Liam Dawson To Kusal Mendis
Full and straight, flat on off, Mendis works it down to long off for a single.
16.4
4
Liam Dawson To Kusal Mendis
FOUR MORE! Excellently played! Shortish delivery, just outside off, Kusal Mendis uses the depth of the crease, plays it very late and cuts it to the left of backward point for a boundary. Runs are coming thick and fast for the Lankans.
16.4
wd
Liam Dawson To Kusal Mendis
FIVE WIDES! Bonus runs for Sri Lanka! Slides on way down leg, on a fuller length, Kusal tries to flick, but misses. The ball beats the inside edge and Buttler too, before rushing through to the deep fine leg fence, beating Brook's chase from short fine leg.
16.3
0
Liam Dawson To Kusal Mendis
Full and outside off, driven off the front foot to short cover. Bethell dives and cuts it off to his right.
16.2
0
Liam Dawson To Kusal Mendis
At 88 kph, full and sliding on leg, Mendis taps it off the front foot to mid on.
16.1
1
Liam Dawson To Dhananjaya de Silva
A friendly full toss, on leg, clipped through square leg for a single.
A couple of productive overs for Sri Lanka. 16 runs from the last 2 overs. Liam Dawson (3-0-11-0) is back on, replacing Rehan Ahmed.
End Of The Over 16 : 71/2
6 Runs
- 015.1
- 015.2
- 115.3
- 015.4
- 415.5
- 115.6
de Silva
7 (8)
K. Mendis
12 (21)
A. Rashid
3-0-9-1
15.6
1
Adil Rashid To Dhananjaya de Silva
Touch short, on the leg stump line, de Silva nudges it through square leg for a single.
15.5
4
Adil Rashid To Dhananjaya de Silva
FOUR! Top shot! Flighted up, full and wide outside off, Dhananjaya de Silva smashes it over the bowler for a cracking boundary down the ground!
15.4
0
Adil Rashid To Dhananjaya de Silva
A googly, short, on off, de Silva watchfully blocks it in front.
15.3
1
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
Slower at just 67 kph, on middle, Mendis sweeps it to deep mid-wicket for a single.
15.2
0
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
Dishes out a googly, on middle, Mendis plays with the turn and nudges it to mid-wicket.
15.1
0
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
BEATEN! In dipper leg break, pitched on leg and spins square across the bat's face, beating Mendis' front foot defence.
End Of The Over 15 : 65/2
10 Runs
- 014.1
- 014.2
- 114.3
- 414.4
- 414.5
- 114.6
K. Mendis
11 (18)
de Silva
2 (5)
R. Ahmed
2-0-12-0
14.6
1
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
Full and outside off, Kusal prods in front and drills it through mid off for a single. 10 off the over!
14.5
4
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
FOUR! Copy-paste of the previous ball! Flat and quick, wide outside off, on a length. Kusal Mendis hangs deep inside the crease and guides it behind short third for a boundary. Two in two for Mendis.
14.4
4
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
FOUR! Nicely placed! Short, outside off, Kusal Mendis gets the width, rocks back and guides it past short third for a boundary.
14.3
1
Rehan Ahmed To Dhananjaya de Silva
Too full, on middle, de Silva sweeps it through square leg for a single.
14.2
0
Rehan Ahmed To Dhananjaya de Silva
Full, on off, tapped out to point.
14.1
0
Rehan Ahmed To Dhananjaya de Silva
Keeps it stump-to-stump, Dhananjaya de Silva blocks it down the pitch.
End Of The Over 14 : 55/2
2 Runs
- 013.1
- 113.2
- 013.3
- W 13.4
- 013.5
- 113.6
de Silva
1 (2)
K. Mendis
2 (15)
A. Rashid
2-0-3-1
13.6
1
Adil Rashid To Dhananjaya de Silva
Full and wide outside off, de Silva pushes it to the left of cover for a single.
13.5
0
Adil Rashid To Dhananjaya de Silva
He presses in front and blocks the full ball.
Both the Lankan openers are back in the pavilion now, after such a watchful start. Dhananjaya de Silva is in at number 4.
13.4
W
Adil Rashid To Kamil Mishara OUT!
OUT! BOWLED! A self-inflicted dismissal and Adil opens his account as well. A beautifully flighted googly, landing outside leg. Mishara shuffles a bit too across for the sweep, misses it completely to connect as the ball turns away past his bat and crashes into the stumps, rattling the furniture. Kamil Mishara departs on 27 (37) and Sri Lanka are 54/2.
13.3
0
Adil Rashid To Kamil Mishara
Full on the stumps, steered away to mid-wicket.
13.2
1
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
Full and on middle, Kusal sweeps it to deep backward square leg for a single.
13.1
0
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
Sliding onto the pads, full in length, Mendis tries to sweep, but gets a bottom edge to the keeper.
End Of The Over 13 : 53/1
2 Runs
- 112.1
- 012.2
- 012.3
- 012.4
- 012.5
- 112.6
K. Mendis
1 (13)
K. Mishara
27 (35)
R. Ahmed
1-0-2-0
12.6
1
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
Outside off and short, Kusal Mendis rocks back and cuts it to deep point for a single. Tidy start for Rehan.
12.5
0
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
At 88 kph, Rehan dishes out a googly, short and on middle. Mendis presses back and dabs it to point.
12.4
0
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
Looped up, full and on off, Kusal presses forward and blocks.
12.3
0
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
Slightly short, on off, Mendis hangs back and bunts it back to the bowler.
12.2
0
Rehan Ahmed To Kusal Mendis
Nice and full, blocked into the off side.
12.1
1
Rehan Ahmed To Kamil Mishara
Touch short, a googly, this is slapped to point for a single.
Spin from both ends now. Rehan Ahmed replaces Sam Curran.
End Of The Over 12 : 51/1
1 Runs
- 111.1
- 011.2
- 011.3
- 011.4
- 011.5
- 011.6
K. Mendis
0 (8)
K. Mishara
26 (34)
A. Rashid
1-0-1-0
11.6
0
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
Lovely flight, full and on middle, defended watchfully by Mendis.
11.5
0
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
Full, on middle, blocked back at the bowler.
11.4
0
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
Spins away from off, full in length, blocked off the front foot. More off the outside edge.
11.3
0
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
Tossed up, full and on off, Mendis eases it back to Rashid..
11.2
0
Adil Rashid To Kusal Mendis
Full, on middle, Mendis leans forward and pushes it back to the bowler.
11.1
1
Adil Rashid To Kamil Mishara
Short and spinning in, Mishara works it across to widish mid off for a single.
End Of The Over 11 : 50/1
1 Runs
- 110.1
- 010.2
- W 10.3
- 010.4
- 010.5
- 010.6
K. Mendis
0 (3)
K. Mishara
25 (33)
S. Curran
4-0-15-1
10.6
0
Sam Curran To Kusal Mendis
Nice and full, at a gentle pace. Kusal presses in front and smothers the pace.
10.5
0
Sam Curran To Kusal Mendis
On middle, on a length, Kusal punches it to cover with soft hands.
10.4
0
Sam Curran To Kusal Mendis
Length ball, around off, knocked off the back foot to cover.
England finally have a wicket. In walks Kusal Mendis at number 3.
10.3
W
Sam Curran To Pathum Nissanka OUT!
OUT! MISTIMED AND TAKEN! Sam Curran provides the first breakthrough for England. He cunningly dishes out the moon ball, lands it full and just around the off pole. Pathum is deceived by the lack of pace as he swings his bat way to early to drag the ball over mid on. Gets it mistimed off the inner half and the fielder at mid on, Liam Dawson, moves to his left and takes a fine catch on his haunches. Pathum Nissanka departs on 21 (30). Sri Lanka are 50/1.
10.2
0
Sam Curran To Pathum Nissanka
Skids through from a fuller length, around the stump. Pathum drags the bat in front and blocks it down the pitch.
10.1
1
Sam Curran To Kamil Mishara
Short, on middle, pulled off the back foot to widish deep mid-wicket for a single. 50 UP FOR SRI LANKA!
Powerplay 2 is underway. England can now station a maximum of four fielders outside the 30 yard circle from overs 11 to 40. From Sri Lanka’s perspective, it has been a largely watchful phase so far. The two batters have read the conditions well and shown no signs of rust. England are still without a wicket and it would not be a surprise to see spin from both ends, especially with how tight Liam Dawson has been. For the moment, Sam Curran will carry on. 0/14 in 3 overs so far.
End Of The Over 10 : 49/0
6 Runs
- 19.1
- 09.2
- 19.3
- 09.4
- 49.5
- 09.6
P. Nissanka
21 (28)
K. Mishara
24 (32)
L. Dawson
3-0-11-0
9.6
0
Liam Dawson To Pathum Nissanka
Fuller, on off, Nissanka prods and defends it to the off side.
9.5
4
Liam Dawson To Pathum Nissanka
FOUR! That's pure placement from Nissanka! A touch fuller, just outside the off pole. Pathum stays on his back foot but crouches a bit, opens the face of the bat and steers it to the left of the backward point fielder for four more runs.
9.4
0
Liam Dawson To Pathum Nissanka
Short, around off, Nissanka gets on his back foot and punches it to cover.
9.3
1
Liam Dawson To Kamil Mishara
Flat and fuller, around off, Nissanka sits down on one knee and sweeps it to deep mid-wicket for a single.
9.2
0
Liam Dawson To Kamil Mishara
Full again, on middle, Kamil looks to nudge it from his front foot toward mid-wicket, but gets the connection from the outer part of his bat. The ball drops on the track and rolls back to the bowler.
9.1
1
Liam Dawson To Pathum Nissanka
Fullish, just outside off, Nissanka shimmies down the track and drives it toward the right of the short extra cover for a single.
End Of The Over 9 : 43/0
4 Runs
- 08.1
- 18.2
- 28.3
- 08.4
- 18.5
- 08.6
K. Mishara
23 (30)
P. Nissanka
16 (24)
S. Curran
3-0-14-0
8.6
0
Sam Curran To Kamil Mishara
Pitches it up, does Curran, on off, Mishara drives it straight to the mid off fielder and gets no run.
8.5
1
Sam Curran To Pathum Nissanka
Hard-length delivery, just outside off, Nissanka bunts it to cover-point and gets a single.
8.4
0
Sam Curran To Pathum Nissanka
Fuller, around off, Pathum drives it to the right of the mid off fielder.
8.3
2
Sam Curran To Pathum Nissanka
Good length, angling in on off. Nissanka stays tall and goes for the pull over mid-wicket, but it lacks power. The deep square leg fielder, Overton, ambles across to his left and keeps it down to two.
8.2
1
Sam Curran To Kamil Mishara
Fuller, on off, Mishara leans on and drives it to the right of the mid off fielder and steals a single.
8.1
0
Sam Curran To Kamil Mishara
Good-length delivery, on off, Mishara stays on his back foot and dabs it to cover-point.
Switch of ends for Sam Curran (2-0-10-). He replaces Jamie Overton.
End Of The Over 8 : 39/0
2 Runs
- 07.1
- 07.2
- 07.3
- 17.4
- 17.5
- 07.6
P. Nissanka
13 (21)
K. Mishara
22 (27)
L. Dawson
2-0-5-0
7.6
0
Liam Dawson To Pathum Nissanka
Short of a length, around off, Nissanka slaps it but finds the fielder in the point region.
7.5
1
Liam Dawson To Kamil Mishara
Fuller with some flight on offer, on middle. Kamil gets on his front foot and drives it to long on for a single.
7.4
1
Liam Dawson To Pathum Nissanka
Fuller, around off, Nissanka drives it wide of mid off for a single.
7.3
0
Liam Dawson To Pathum Nissanka
A touch shorter, angling in on leg, Nissanka camps back and nudges it to mid-wicket.
7.2
0
Liam Dawson To Pathum Nissanka
Tossed up, fuller, on middle, Nissanka strides out and defends it back to the bowler.
7.1
0
Liam Dawson To Pathum Nissanka
Short, around the fifth stump. Nissanka punches it with cross bat to cover.
End Of The Over 7 : 37/0
8 Runs
- 06.1
- 66.2
- 06.3
- 06.4
- 06.5
- 26.6
K. Mishara
21 (26)
P. Nissanka
12 (16)
J. Overton
4-0-20-0
6.6
2
Jamie Overton To Kamil Mishara
Short of a length, just outside off, Mishara steers it to the left of the deep third for a couple of runs. 8 runs off the over!
6.5
0
Jamie Overton To Kamil Mishara
Back of a length, outside off, Mishara gets on his toes and punches it to cover.
6.4
0
Jamie Overton To Kamil Mishara
Fuller, angling in, around middle, Mishara tucks it to mid-wicket.
6.3
0
Jamie Overton To Kamil Mishara
On a length, on off, Mishara dabs it to point.
6.2
6
Jamie Overton To Kamil Mishara
SIX! That's exceptional from Mishara! Jamie Overton bends his back and offers a bouncer, on off and middle. Kamil Mishara hangs on his back foot, swivels and pulls it up and over the deep square leg fence for half a dozen.
6.1
0
Jamie Overton To Kamil Mishara
Full, around middle, Mishara nudges it to mid-wicket.
Double change? Nope. Jamie Overton (3-0-12-0) to continue.
End Of The Over 6 : 29/0
3 Runs
- 05.1
- 05.2
- 25.3
- 15.4
- 05.5
- 05.6
P. Nissanka
12 (16)
K. Mishara
13 (20)
L. Dawson
1-0-3-0
5.6
0
Liam Dawson To Pathum Nissanka
Uppish but away! At 89 kph, this is speared in at a fuller length, almost a yorker. Nissanka clears the front leg and chips it towards mid-wicket, Bethell launches himself to his left, but the ball just evades his reach. A very tidy start for Dawson. Just 3 off his first over.
5.5
0
Liam Dawson To Pathum Nissanka
Full, on middle, Nissanka rests it down.
5.4
1
Liam Dawson To Kamil Mishara
Short, on the pads, Mishara nudges it to square leg for one.
5.3
2
Liam Dawson To Kamil Mishara
Short of a length, angling it away from the left-hander. Mishara transfers his weight to his back foot and pushes it into the gap in the cover region. The cover fielder sprints back and cuts it down to two runs.
5.2
0
Liam Dawson To Kamil Mishara
A touch fuller, on leg, Mishara tucks it to mid on.
5.1
0
Liam Dawson To Kamil Mishara
Liam Dawson jogs from around the wicket, pitching it fuller, on leg, Mishara nudges it to mid-wicket on his front foot.
Unsurprisingly, spin has been deployed inside the Powerplay. The newer ball has skidded on and to exploit the slowish conditions, Brook tosses the ball to Liam Dawson. He replaces Sam Curran.
End Of The Over 5 : 26/0
1 Runs
- 04.1
- 04.2
- 04.3
- 14.4
- 04.5
- 04.6
P. Nissanka
12 (14)
K. Mishara
10 (16)
J. Overton
3-0-12-0
4.6
0
Jamie Overton To Pathum Nissanka
Back of a length, just outside off, Nissanka stabs it to cover from his back foot.
4.5
0
Jamie Overton To Pathum Nissanka
Fuller, angling in, around off, Nissanka stabs it to cover for no runs.
4.4
1
Jamie Overton To Kamil Mishara
On a length, into the corridor or uncertainty. Mishara throws his hands at it, but gets the outside edge. The ball skims toward the deep third fielder and the batters pinch in a single.
4.3
0
Jamie Overton To Kamil Mishara
Much fuller, just outside off, Mishara opens the face of the bat but hits it off the toe end, and the ball rolls away to point.
4.2
0
Jamie Overton To Kamil Mishara
Back of a length again, on off, Mishara defends it on his back foot.
4.1
0
Jamie Overton To Kamil Mishara
BEATEN! Jamie Overton steams from around the wicket and pitches it back of a length, just outside off and angles it in. Mishara rocks back to block it down, but the ball straightens up and zips past the outside edge.
End Of The Over 4 : 25/0
5 Runs
- 03.1
- 03.2
- 43.3
- 03.4
- 03.5
- 13.6
K. Mishara
9 (12)
P. Nissanka
12 (12)
S. Curran
2-0-10-0
3.6
1
Sam Curran To Kamil Mishara
Short of a good length, outside off, Mishara punches it through cover-point for an easy single.
3.5
0
Sam Curran To Kamil Mishara
Full, around off, Mishara pushes it to mid off.
3.4
0
Sam Curran To Kamil Mishara
On a length, around off, Mishara defends it to cover.
3.3
4
Sam Curran To Kamil Mishara
FOUR! SMOOTH OPERATOR! This is fuller from Curran, pitching it outside off. Kamil Mishara strides out to the pitch of the ball, and drives it away, piercing the gap between short extra cover and mid off for four more runs.
3.2
0
Sam Curran To Kamil Mishara
Back of a length, around off, Mishara bunts it to the off side.
3.1
0
Sam Curran To Kamil Mishara
Fuller, outside off, Mishara does not move his feet much, and tries to drive it away, but gets the inside edge onto the pads.
End Of The Over 3 : 20/0
8 Runs
- 22.1
- 02.2
- 4 LB 2.3
- 02.4
- 02.5
- 22.6
P. Nissanka
12 (12)
K. Mishara
4 (6)
J. Overton
2-0-11-0
2.6
2
Jamie Overton To Pathum Nissanka
Pitches it up, does Overton. On middle and leg. Nissanka drives it through the line toward the left of the mid on fielder, who dives but fails stop the ball. It rolls away to the outfield, but the mid off fielder sprints across and cuts it before the ropes. Two taken.
2.5
0
Jamie Overton To Pathum Nissanka
Much fuller, on off, Nissanka jams it to mid off.
2.4
0
Jamie Overton To Pathum Nissanka
Back of a length, around off, Nissanka dabs it to cover.
2.3
lb
Jamie Overton To Pathum Nissanka
FOUR LEG BYES! Fired in full and drifting into the pads. Nissanka shuffles across for the flick, fails to make contact, but it clips the front pad and evades the keeper’s dive to his left, running away fine to the deep fine leg fence.
2.2
0
Jamie Overton To Pathum Nissanka
On a length, just outside off, Nissanka presses forward and eases it to cover.
2.1
2
Jamie Overton To Pathum Nissanka
Good-length delivery, angling in, on off and middle. Nissanka rolls his wrists and flicks it toward the left of square leg for a brace.
End Of The Over 2 : 12/0
5 Runs
- 01.1
- 41.2
- 11.3
- 01.4
- 01.5
- 01.6
K. Mishara
4 (6)
P. Nissanka
8 (6)
S. Curran
1-0-5-0
1.6
0
Sam Curran To Kamil Mishara
Full, on off, Mishara defends it down.
1.5
0
Sam Curran To Kamil Mishara
Fuller, angling in, Mishara fends it back to the bowler.
1.4
0
Sam Curran To Kamil Mishara
On a hard length, outside off, Mishara looks to cut it on his back foot but misses.
1.3
1
Sam Curran To Pathum Nissanka
On a length, on leg, Nissanka nudges it to mid-wicket for one.
1.2
4
Sam Curran To Pathum Nissanka
FOUR! Gloriously driven! On a length, outside off. Nissanka plants his front foot toward the delivery and drives it through the gap of cover and point. The cover fielder, Jacob Bethell, tracks back and dives to flick it back, but he does not lay his hand on the ball, and it rolls away to the fence.
1.1
0
Sam Curran To Pathum Nissanka
Full, on middle, Nissanka blocks it down.
A pretty decent first over. But the surface already looks on the slower side. There was not much bounce on offer for Overton. Sam Curran will operate from the opposite end.
End Of The Over 1 : 7/0
7 Runs
- 20.1
- 00.2
- 10.3
- 00.4
- 00.5
- 40.6
K. Mishara
4 (3)
P. Nissanka
3 (3)
J. Overton
1-0-7-0
0.6
4
Jamie Overton To Kamil Mishara
FOUR! EDGED AND AWAY! On a hard length, pitching it just outside off, and it stays very low on the bounce, almost dies on the batter. Kamil throws his hands to cut it square, only to find a thick inside edge that dies on its way to the keeper. Jos Buttler lunges to his left, but the ball drops short of his gloves and escapes to the deep third boundary.
0.5
0
Jamie Overton To Kamil Mishara
Back of a length, around off, Mishara defends it in front.
0.4
0
Jamie Overton To Kamil Mishara
Jamie Overton switches his side and bowls around the wicket to the left-hander. He pitches hard on the back of a length and swings it away from the batter. Mishara looks to cut it but misses the connction.
0.3
1
Jamie Overton To Pathum Nissanka
Short again, outside off, Nissanka cuts it toward the backward point fielder. The fielder gets some hands to half stop and the batter gets a single.
0.2
0
Jamie Overton To Pathum Nissanka
Full-length delivery, on off, angling in. Pathum Nissanka strides out and defends it right under his eyesight.
0.1
2
Jamie Overton To Pathum Nissanka
Sri Lanka are underway! Overton starts off with a bouncer, on off and middle. Nissanka hangs on his back foot and pulls it down toward the deep square leg region for a brace.
Done with all the pre-match rituals and it is now time to get going in this ODI series. Thankfully, the skies are clear in Colombo. It is bright and sunny out there in the Sri Lankan capital city. The umpires and players head out to the middle. Brook leads his troops out as the English players spread across the field and take their spots. Pathum Nissanka is accompanied by Kamil Mishara to open for Sri Lanka. Jamie Overton has the new ball and is all set to get us underway with the first over. A slip in place. Nissanka to take the strike. The countdown is done, and 'Let's Play' says the umpire!
Just a few minutes away from the start. But before that, both teams have lined up for their respective national anthems. It will be England's first, followed by that of the Sri Lankan national anthem.
PITCH REPORT - Steve Harmison reports that the weather is clear and conditions are ideal for cricket. Says that the square boundaries measure 62 and 64 metres, and the surface looks in excellent shape with a touch of grass left on to bind it together. He feels the ball should come nicely onto the bat early on, but as the match wears on, the pitch is expected to slow up and test the batters, allowing the spinners to come into play. Shares that the average first innings score at the venue is 223, though he believes it could be higher in these conditions.
The captain of England, Harry Brook, says that they would have batted first as well, but tells it is what it is and they will try to restrict Sri Lanka to a chaseable total. Admits that Sri Lanka have been a strong side at home and they are looking forward to the challenge they will present. Informs that Rehan Ahmed comes in the side, as Will Jacks is out of the pre-announced XI due to illness.
The captain of Sri Lanka, Charith Asalanka notes that the surface looks in good condition and the idea is to post a strong total. He adds that Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana have been rested with the World Cup in mind, with Dhananjaya de Silva coming into the side after a long time. Asalanka also points out that the team has been performing consistently well, barring the recent tour of Pakistan, and the focus is on carrying forward the same momentum.
UPDATE - Important news coming in from the English camp as there has been a late change in their playing XI. Will Jacks has been ruled out of the first ODI due to illness. Rehan Ahmed gets a go-ahead for the series opener.
England (Playing XI) - Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook (C), Jos Buttler(WK), Sam Curran, Rehan Ahmed, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, and Adil Rashid.
Sri Lanka (Playing XI) - Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (WK), Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka (C), Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Dunith Wellalage, Pramod Madushan, Jeffrey Vandersay, and Asitha Fernando.
TOSS - The flip of the coin lands in favor of Sri Lanka and they have opted to BAT first.
Sri Lanka have turned home conditions into a stronghold in the ODI format since July 2021. Series after series, they have stood their ground, going nearly five years without a single home defeat and stacking up 12 straight bilateral series wins against a range of opponents. England, meanwhile, arrive carrying the weight of recent struggles. Results have gone against them far more often than not, with only one ODI series win since September 2023 and the scars of stinging defeats. This contest, then, is about more than just points or rankings. Sri Lanka will be determined to protect what has become an unbreachable fortress, while England step in searching for a reset, a response and a revival. Toss and teams coming up shortly.
It has been more than a decade since Sri Lanka last won a bilateral ODI series at home against England, with that success coming in the memorable 2014-15 series, which featured seven ODIs. Charith Asalanka, despite being relieved of the T20 World Cup captaincy, returns to lead the side, as the selectors also recall Dushmantha Chameera and Dhananjaya de Silva after their recent absence from the 50-over setup. Chameera’s comeback adds extra edge to a pace attack featuring Pramod Madushan, Asitha Fernando, Milan Rathnayake, and Eshan Malinga, while the batting looks settled with Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis at the top and Sadeera Samarawickrama and Kamindu Mendis anchoring the middle. The all round strength remains a key pillar for Sri Lanka, led by Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, and de Silva, who also offer threatening spin variations.
Since that high point, England’s grip on the format has loosened drastically. Results have slipped away, and by 2026, they find themselves languishing as low as eighth in the ICC rankings. The period has also been marked by a transition in leadership. After the Stokes chapter, the baton has now been passed on, with a new phase beginning under Harry Brook as England look to rediscover their identity in the 50-over format. Following tradition, England have announced their XI, a familiar one to the Ashes, as six of their top seven batters played in the recent Sydney Test. The exception is Jos Buttler, while the side features Sam Curran and Jamie Overton as bona fide all-rounders. Given the expected slow pitch at Khettarama, England have opted for two specialist spinners in Liam Dawson and Adil Rashid.
Though these two sides have crossed paths regularly at World Cups and in multi-nation tournaments, this marks their first bilateral ODI series since the 2018-19 season. The wait, quite clearly, has been a long one. Back then, it was the touring English side that had the final say, stamping their authority over the hosts. That series was led by none other than Eoin Morgan, a captain who defined their fearless approach and presided over the format’s most dominant phase in the ODIs for the Three Lions, gracing it with a World Cup victory in 2019.
New day. New series. Cricket is just unstoppable. But who’s complaining, eh? From a different corner of the globe, a fresh series is about to set its sail as Sri Lanka host England for a thrilling white-ball series. It all starts with three highly anticipated ODIs before the teams begin their final dress rehearsal with the T20I series for the upcoming T20 World Cup. But for now, let’s focus on the longer format. Hello and welcome to our coverage of this first ODI from the historic R. Premadasa Stadium of Colombo. Should be a cracker. So hop along for this exciting ride in the island nation.
... MATCH DAY ...
As the Australian summer and the sub-continental winter come to an end, the preparations for the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup are in full swing. England now travel to one of the host countries, Sri Lanka, for a white-ball series. First up, we will have three ODIs, all to be played at the iconic R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The last time these two teams faced each other in the ODI format was back in late 2023, in the ODI World Cup, a game that Sri Lanka won quite comprehensively. Also, the last ODI series these sides played, it resulted in 3-0 losses for both of them. The Lankans were beaten by Pakistan last November and England saw one of their worst-ever batting performances in an ODI series as they were hammered by the Kiwis at home. This series serves as an opportunity to wipe the slate clean and start a new era, one that might be crucial in the lead up to the ODI World Cup next year. For England, this isn't just a friendly series. After a dismal 2025 in the 50-over format, winning just 4 of their 15 matches, England find themselves in a precarious position regarding automatic qualification for the 2027 World Cup. Currently clinging to a narrow lead over the West Indies in the ICC rankings, Harry Brook’s side needs wins to avoid the embarrassment of a qualifying tournament. Further pressure sits on the leadership. Following a difficult Ashes campaign, captain Harry Brook and coach Brendon McCullum are under the microscope. The recall of Zak Crawley after more than 700 days out of the ODI side suggests a team still searching for its best identity in this format. The hosts, on the other hand, are looking to build on their consistency under Charith Asalanka. Sri Lanka has named a balanced 17-member squad, retaining 14 players from their most recent series. With the T20 World Cup being co-hosted by Sri Lanka next month, these ODIs at the Premadasa are vital for adapting to the slow, turning tracks that will define the upcoming global tournament. With Jofra Archer sidelined due to injury, the pace attack relies on Brydon Carse and Luke Wood. Joe Root provides the veteran stability in a middle order that includes the explosive Jacob Bethell, fresh off a promising Ashes debut. Sri Lanka have loaded their squad with spin options, including Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, and Jeffrey Vandersay. On a Colombo pitch, England’s ability to sweep and rotate strike against this quartet will decide the match. The R. Premadasa Stadium is a traditional sub-continent surface. Expect it to be slow and low, offering significant assistance to spinners as the game progresses. With an afternoon start, the toss could be crucial as teams often prefer to bat first to avoid the wear and tear of the pitch in the second innings, though dew can sometimes play a factor late in the evening. Sri Lanka enters as the slight favourites given their familiarity with the conditions and England's recent struggles in the 50-over format. However, if England's aggressive approach can put the Sri Lankan spinners under early pressure, they could silence the Colombo crowd. Who do you reckon will come out on top?
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Match Info
- Venue R.Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
- Weather Sunny
- Toss Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to bat
- Umpire Raveendra Wimalasiri (SL), Rod Tucker (AUS) and Adrian Holdstock (SA)
- Referee Ranjan Madugalle (SL)
Match Notes
- K Mendis 35th ODI fifty: 50 runs in 61 balls (8x4) (0x6)
- Sri Lanka 100/3 in 22.3 overs
- Referral 1 (21.5 ovs): ENG against C Asalanka (LBW) Unsuccessful (SL: 2, ENG: 1)
- Drinks: Sri Lanka 90/2 in 19.0 overs
- 1st wkt Partnership: 50 off 61 balls between P Nissanka (21) and K Mishara (25)
- Sri Lanka 50/0 in 10.1 overs
- Power play 1 (1-10): Sri Lanka 49/0
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