3 min read Last Updated : Jan 24 2026 | 2:10 PM IST
Sri Lanka and England are locking horns in the second ODI of the three-match series today, with both sides eager to gain the upper hand after an eventful opening encounter.
The coin flip of the match went in Sri Lanka's way who opted to bat first. Sri Lanka vs England 2nd ODI playing 11: Sri Lanka playing 11: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis(w), Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka(c), Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Dunith Wellalage, Pramod Madushan, Jeffrey Vandersay, Asitha Fernando England playing 11: Rehan Ahmed, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook(c), Jos Buttler(w), Will Jacks, Sam Curran, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Adil Rashid
Sri Lanka will take confidence from playing at home, where their familiarity with the surfaces often proves decisive. Led by Charith Asalanka, the hosts are likely to rely on their solid top order, featuring Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis, to provide stability. The middle order, supported by all-rounders such as Dhananjaya de Silva and Kamindu Mendis, adds depth, while the spin duo of Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana could play a major role in controlling England through the middle overs.
England, meanwhile, will be keen to bounce back and level the series. With aggressive batters like Jos Buttler and Ben Duckett capable of changing the game quickly, England’s focus will be on adapting better to local conditions. Their bowling attack, blending pace and spin through options like Sam Curran and Adil Rashid, will need to be disciplined to counter Sri Lanka’s strengths.