Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 The roar of the crowd at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo is still echoing from Sri Lanka’s gritty 19-run victory in the first ODI. As the Lions take a 1-0 lead in this three-match series during England’s tour of Sri Lanka 2026, the stage is set for a high-stakes showdown in the second game. Can Harry Brook’s England side bounce back from their recent slump, or will Charith Asalanka’s men seal the series with another home triumph? This match isn’t just about points—it’s a test of resilience, spin mastery, and batting firepower in subcontinental conditions.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers, led by the wizardry of Wanindu Hasaranga and the pace of Asitha Fernando, dismantled England’s chase in the opener. Meanwhile, Kusal Mendis’ composed innings anchored the hosts to a defendable total. For England, veterans like Joe Root and Adil Rashid showed glimpses of class, but their middle order crumbled under pressure. With the ICC ODI rankings and preparations for future tournaments on the line, this encounter promises drama.
Historically, England tours to Sri Lanka have been spin-dominated affairs. The visitors have struggled in Asian conditions, losing their last few ODI series here. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, boast an impressive home record, winning 10 out of 11 ODIs against England at this very venue. Day-night games add another layer, with dew often playing a pivotal role in chases.
In this detailed preview, we’ll dive into everything you need: match schedule, venue insights, pitch breakdown, weather updates, squad breakdowns, probable lineups, star performers, head-to-head stats, recent forms, and our expert prediction. Whether you’re a die-hard cricket fan or just tuning in, this guide has you covered. Let’s break it down.
Match Details and Schedule
The second ODI between Sri Lanka and England is a crucial fixture in the 2026 series. Played under lights at one of cricket’s most atmospheric grounds, it’s a must-watch for fans worldwide.
Here’s a quick overview in table form for easy reference:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Series | England Tour of Sri Lanka 2026 (3-match ODI series) |
| Match | 2nd ODI |
| Date | January 24, 2026 |
| Venue | R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, Sri Lanka |
| Series Status | Sri Lanka leads 1-0 after 19-run win in 1st ODI |
| Umpires | To be announced (likely local and neutral officials) |
| Match Referee | To be announced (ICC appointed) |
This game follows the standard ODI format: 50 overs per side, with powerplays and field restrictions. It’s part of England’s preparation for upcoming global events, while Sri Lanka aims to build momentum at home.
Why is this match important? England, once ODI giants, have slipped in rankings after recent losses. A win here could boost their confidence. For Sri Lanka, a series victory would affirm their revival under Asalanka’s captaincy.
If you’re planning to catch the action, note that interruptions due to rain are possible in Colombo’s tropical climate, but more on that later.
Match Timings and Toss
Timing is everything in cricket, especially in day-night ODIs where conditions change dramatically.
The match kicks off at 2:30 PM local time (which is the same as IST, given Sri Lanka’s time zone alignment). For global viewers:
- 2:30 PM IST (India/Sri Lanka)
- 9:00 AM GMT (UK)
- 8:00 PM AEDT (Australia, next day)
The toss happens 30 minutes prior, at 2:00 PM local time. Captains Charith Asalanka and Harry Brook will decide whether to bat or bowl first—a choice that could define the game.
In recent ODIs at Premadasa, teams winning the toss often opt to bat first to set a total before dew makes bowling tricky in the second innings. Expect Asalanka to bowl if he wins, leveraging his spinners later. Brook might bat to post a big score and pressure Sri Lanka’s chase.
Pro tip for fans: Tune in early for pre-match analysis on broadcasts, where experts discuss toss impacts based on pitch wear and weather.
Live Telecast and Streaming Guide (India & Global)
Can’t make it to the stadium? No worries—cricket is global, and this match is accessible everywhere.
In India, where cricket fever runs high (shoutout to Mumbai fans like us at IPL Star), catch it on:
- TV Channels: Sony Sports Network (Sony Six, Sony Ten 2—check local listings for HD)
- Online Streaming: FanCode app and website (requires subscription, starting at ₹99/month for cricket packs)
FanCode offers multi-angle views, highlights, and expert commentary, perfect for on-the-go viewing.
Globally:
- UK: Sky Sports Cricket (subscription-based, with build-up shows)
- Australia: Fox Cricket or Kayo Sports (streaming option)
- USA: Willow TV (cable or app)
- Other regions: Check ICC.tv or local broadcasters like SuperSport (South Africa) or PTV Sports (Pakistan)
For free options, some countries have official YouTube streams, but paid services ensure HD quality without lags. Link to official Sony Sports schedule here for more details.
If you’re traveling, VPNs can help access home streams, but always use legal methods to support the sport.
Ticket Booking Guide for R. Premadasa Stadium
Want to experience the electric atmosphere live? Colombo’s Premadasa is a bucket-list venue for cricket lovers.
Tickets are available through the official Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) website. Prices range from LKR 500 (general stands) to LKR 10,000+ for premium boxes with air-conditioning and hospitality.
- Online Booking: Fastest way—select seats via interactive map. Use credit cards or local payment apps.
- Box Office: Limited tickets on match day, but arrive early (gates open 12:00 PM).
- Tips: Book 48 hours in advance for sold-out risks. Family enclosures are family-friendly. Check for COVID protocols, though minimal in 2026.
For stadium maps, visit ESPNCricinfo’s venue page.
Capacity is 35,000, so expect a packed house with passionate Sri Lankan fans chanting for their heroes.
R. Premadasa Stadium – Venue Overview
Named after former President Ranasinghe Premadasa, this stadium is a cornerstone of Sri Lankan cricket. Built in 1986, it’s hosted iconic moments like the 1996 World Cup final where Sri Lanka triumphed.
- Capacity: 35,000 spectators, creating an intense cauldron.
- Ends: Khettarama End (for aggressive shots) and Scoreboard End (tactical play).
- Floodlights: State-of-the-art, ensuring seamless day-night games.
- Atmosphere: Electric—fans with flags, drums, and chants make it feel like a fortress for the home team.
It’s hosted over 150 ODIs, with Sri Lanka winning most home games. The ground favors spinners due to its dry surface, but seamers get early help.
Wikipedia on Premadasa Stadium.
Key Venue Statistics and Records
Let’s crunch the numbers. Premadasa is data-rich, showing a balanced yet spin-friendly venue.
Here’s a table of overall ODI stats:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 156 (as of Jan 2026) |
| Teams Batting First Won | 82 |
| Teams Chasing Won | 65 |
| Ties/No Results | 9 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 235 |
| Highest Team Total | 375/5 (Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe, 2025) |
| Lowest Team Total | 50 all out (Sri Lanka vs India, 2017) |
| Best Batting | 189* (Sanath Jayasuriya vs India, 2008) |
| Best Bowling | 6/13 (Ajantha Mendis vs India, 2008) |
Spinners take 55% of wickets here. Recent trends: Scores around 250-280 are defendable.
For England vs Sri Lanka at this venue:
| Matches | SL Wins | ENG Wins |
|---|---|---|
| 11 | 10 | 1 |
Sri Lanka’s dominance is clear—England’s lone win was in 2018.
Sri Lanka vs England Head-to-Head at this Venue
The numbers tell a story of Sri Lankan supremacy. In 11 encounters, England have managed just one victory, back in a rain-affected game.
Memorable match: In 2021, England chased down a small total, but Sri Lanka have won the last few, including series in 2023.
Why? Home spinners like Hasaranga exploit the turn, while England’s batsmen struggle against mystery spin.
Notable Past Matches at R. Premadasa Stadium
- 1996 World Cup Final: Sri Lanka’s historic win over Australia.
- 2011 World Cup: High-scoring thrillers.
- Recent: Sri Lanka’s 8-wicket win over England in 2023.
These games highlight the venue’s role in cricket lore. For more, check Cricbuzz venue stats.
Pitch Report and Surface Analysis
The Premadasa pitch is a classic Asian track: starts flat, then grips and turns.
Early overs: Good carry for pacers like Asitha Fernando or Brydon Carse. Batters can score freely in powerplay.
Mid-game: Slows down, with variable bounce. Spinners dominate—expect googlys from Hasaranga or leg-spin from Rashid to trouble.
Late: Dew makes it slick, favoring chasers.
Expected par: 270-290 batting first. From searches, recent reports confirm “spinner’s paradise” with turn from ball one.
Semantic keyword: “R Premadasa Stadium pitch report 2nd ODI 2026” – favors home team.
Dew Factor and Its Tactical Impact
Dew is a game-changer in Colombo evenings. Heavy moisture (80% humidity) makes the ball wet, reducing spinner grip.
Impact: Second innings bowling becomes harder—teams chase 70% of day-night games here.
Tactics: Load spinners in first innings, pace in second. Captains bowl first to exploit dew.
From weather data: Expect significant dew post 6 PM.
Weather Forecast for January 24, 2026
Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 Colombo in January is warm and humid.
- Temperature: 28-32°C day, 24-26°C evening.
- Humidity: 75-85%.
- Conditions: Partly cloudy with 30% rain chance (brief showers possible).
- Wind: Light, 10-15 km/h.
Full match likely, but covers ready. Source: AccuWeather Colombo.
Toss Prediction and Strategic Implications
Prediction: 65% chance winner bowls first due to dew.
If SL wins toss: Bowl to chase.
If ENG: Bat to set total.
Strategy: Bat aggressively early, rotate strike against spin.
Sri Lanka Squad – Strengths and Selection Dilemmas
Sri Lanka’s squad is spin-heavy, ideal for home.
Full squad in table:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Charith Asalanka (c) | Batting Allrounder |
| Dhananjaya de Silva | Allrounder |
| Asitha Fernando | Bowler |
| Wanindu Hasaranga | Allrounder |
| Janith Liyanage | Batting Allrounder |
| Eshan Malinga | Bowler |
| Kamindu Mendis | Allrounder |
| Kusal Mendis †| Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Kamil Mishara | Opening Batter |
| Pathum Nissanka | Top order Batter |
| Pramod Madushan | Bowler |
| Pavan Rathnayake | Top order Batter |
| Milan Rathnayake | Bowler |
| Sadeera Samarawickrama †| Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Maheesh Theekshana | Bowler |
| Jeffrey Vandersay | Bowler |
| Dunith Wellalage | Bowler |
Strengths: Four spinners (Hasaranga, Theekshana, Wellalage, Vandersay) – perfect for pitch.
Dilemmas: Middle order—Liyanage or Samarawickrama? Pace options limited, but Fernando’s form is key.
England Squad – Key Changes and Strategy
Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 England’s squad mixes experience with youth.
Table:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Harry Brook (c) | Middle order Batter |
| Tom Banton †| Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Jacob Bethell | Batting Allrounder |
| Jos Buttler †| Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Brydon Carse | Bowling Allrounder |
| Zak Crawley | Top order Batter |
| Sam Curran | Allrounder |
| Liam Dawson | Allrounder |
| Ben Duckett | Top order Batter |
| Will Jacks | Batting Allrounder |
| Jamie Overton | Bowling Allrounder |
| Adil Rashid | Bowler |
| Rehan Ahmed | Bowling Allrounder |
| Joe Root | Top order Batter |
| Luke Wood | Bowler |
Changes: Possible inclusion of Overton for pace after 1st ODI loss.
Strategy: Counter spin with sweep shots; use Rashid and Ahmed to match SL’s attack.
Probable Playing XI for Both Teams
Sri Lanka (unchanged likely):
- Pathum Nissanka
- Kamil Mishara
- Kusal Mendis (wk)
- Charith Asalanka (c)
- Kamindu Mendis
- Sadeera Samarawickrama
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Dunith Wellalage
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Asitha Fernando
- Pramod Madushan
England:
- Ben Duckett
- Zak Crawley
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook (c)
- Jos Buttler (wk)
- Will Jacks
- Sam Curran
- Liam Dawson
- Brydon Carse
- Adil Rashid
- Jamie Overton
Balance: SL has more spin; ENG deeper batting.
Team Balance Comparison
SL: 6 batters, 5 bowlers, strong allrounders.
ENG: 7 batters, 4 bowlers, versatile.
SL edges in conditions.
Top Sri Lankan Players in Focus
Kusal Mendis: 516 runs in 10 ODIs @57.33 avg. Anchor with flair.
Charith Asalanka: 380 runs @47.5. Captain’s knocks.
Wanindu Hasaranga: 15 wickets in 6 @4.07 econ. Googly king.
Asitha Fernando: 18 wickets @5.94. Pace threat.
Kamindu Mendis: Allround gem, handy vs ENG.
Pathum Nissanka: Opener with home prowess.
Key England Players Under Pressure
Joe Root: 532 runs @59.11. Class against spin.
Harry Brook: 360 runs @107 SR. Explosive captain.
Adil Rashid: 23 wickets @5.67. Spin leader.
Brydon Carse: 10 wickets. Pace in Asia.
Jos Buttler: WK-batter, needs big score.
Sam Curran: Allrounder, swing specialist.
Crucial Player Match-ups
- Root vs Hasaranga: Technique vs googly.
- Mendis vs Rashid: Anchor vs leg-spin.
- Brook vs Theekshana: Power vs mystery.
- Asalanka vs Carse: Captain vs pace.
- Buttler vs Fernando: Aggression vs swing.
- Nissanka vs Wood: Opener vs left-arm.
- Hasaranga vs Jacks: Allrounder duel.
These 7 battles could decide the game.
Overall Sri Lanka vs England ODI Head-to-Head Record
Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 Even contest overall.
Table:
| Total Matches | SL Wins | ENG Wins | Ties | NR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 80 | 38 | 38 | 1 | 3 |
Highest SL total vs ENG: 366/6 (2018).
Lowest: 99 (ENG, 2011).
Recent Encounters and Trends
Last 5: SL won 1st 2026 (19 runs), SL won 2023 (8 wkts), NR 2021, ENG won 2021 (8 wkts, 5 wkts).
Trend: SL strong at home; ENG struggle in Asia.
Current Form Guide (Last 5–10 Matches)
SL last 5: W (ENG), L L L (PAK), W (ZIM).
ENG: L (SL), L L L (NZ), W (SA).
SL momentum high; ENG in slump.
Table for last 5:
| Team | Match 1 | Match 2 | Match 3 | Match 4 | Match 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SL | W vs ENG | L vs PAK | L vs PAK | L vs PAK | W vs ZIM |
| ENG | L vs SL | L vs NZ | L vs NZ | L vs NZ | W vs SA |
Key Factors That Will Decide the Match
- Spin battle: SL’s quartet vs ENG bats.
- Dew: Chasing advantage.
- Top order: First 10 overs crucial.
- Middle order resilience.
- Captaincy: Asalanka’s tactics vs Brook’s aggression.
- Weather: Rain could shorten game.
- Home crowd energy.
Final Match Prediction
Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 Sri Lanka favorites with home edge, form, and spin. Win probability: SL 65%, ENG 35%.
Predicted winner: Sri Lanka by 20-30 runs or 4-5 wickets.
If ENG bat well against spin, upset possible.
Closing Thoughts
This Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 is a cracker—Sri Lanka poised to clinch, but England’s talent could spark. Watch live, and stay tuned to IPL Star for post-match analysis. What do you think—SL seal or ENG level? Share below!
England Tour of Sri Lanka 2026: Ultimate Preview Guide to the Thrilling 3-Match ODI Series!
Frequently Asked Questions: Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 Preview
- When and where is the Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 scheduled? The 2nd ODI between Sri Lanka and England is set for January 24, 2026, at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka. This day-night match starts at 2:30 PM local time (IST) and 9:00 AM GMT.
- Who is leading the England tour of Sri Lanka 2026 ODI series? Sri Lanka leads 1-0 after securing a 19-run victory in the first ODI. Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 A win in the second match would allow the hosts to clinch the three-match series.
- What is the R Premadasa Stadium pitch report for the SL vs ENG 2nd ODI 2026? The Premadasa pitch typically offers early assistance to pacers, then slows down and provides significant turn for spinners. Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 Average first-innings scores hover around 235–280, with the surface becoming a spinner’s paradise as the match progresses.
- What is the expected dew factor in the Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 in Colombo? Heavy evening dew is anticipated due to high humidity (75–85%). Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 This often favours the chasing side by reducing grip for spinners and making bowling second more challenging.
- Where to watch Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 live in India? Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 In India, the match will be telecast on Sony Sports Network channels and streamed live on the FanCode app and website (subscription required).
- What are the probable playing XIs for SL vs ENG 2nd ODI 2026? Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 Sri Lanka (likely unchanged): Nissanka, Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Asalanka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Samarawickrama, Hasaranga, Wellalage, Theekshana, Fernando, Madushan. England: Duckett, Crawley, Root, Brook (c), Buttler (wk), Jacks, Curran, Dawson, Carse, Rashid, Overton.
- Which players to watch in Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026? Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 For Sri Lanka: Kusal Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Charith Asalanka, and Asitha Fernando. For England: Joe Root, Harry Brook, Adil Rashid, and Jos Buttler are under the spotlight.
- What is the overall Sri Lanka vs England ODI head-to-head record? Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 In 80 ODIs, both teams have won 38 matches each, with 1 tie and 3 no-results. At R. Premadasa Stadium, Sri Lanka dominate with 10 wins out of 11 encounters.
- What is the weather forecast for the SL vs ENG 2nd ODI 2026 in Colombo? Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 Expect warm and humid conditions (28–32°C daytime), partly cloudy skies, and a 30% chance of brief showers. A full match is highly likely.
- Who will win the Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 – expert prediction? Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI 2026 Sri Lanka are favourites with a 65% win probability, thanks to home advantage, superior spin resources, and current momentum. Predicted outcome: Sri Lanka victory by 20–30 runs or 4–5 wickets.