Sri Lanka vs England: T20 Predictions, Team Updates, Betting Insights
The highly anticipated third T20 match between Sri Lanka and England takes place on February 3 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Sri Lanka. Following an intense series, England leads 2-0, aiming for a clean sweep against the co-hosts of the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Sri Lanka vs England: Match Details
Here are the critical details for the upcoming match:
- Date: February 3, 2024
- Start Time: 1:30 PM GMT
- Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele, Sri Lanka
- Broadcast: Live on TNT Sports 1
Recent Performance Insights
England enters this match in strong form, having recently secured a six-wicket victory in a rain-affected match. Tom Banton was instrumental in that win, scoring an unbeaten 54 runs. Captain Harry Brook played a pivotal role as well, contributing 36 runs in just 12 balls. In contrast, Sri Lanka’s batting lineup has struggled, as demonstrated by their performance in the series. They collapsed from a strong position of 76-1 to finish at 133 all out in the opening match.
Key Players to Watch
Kusal Mendis has been a stand-out performer for Sri Lanka, scoring an impressive 93 runs in the earlier ODI series against England. In the T20 matches, he made 37 off 20 balls and 32 off 17 balls respectively. As he celebrated his 31st birthday recently, expectations are high for him to produce a significant performance in this match.
Pavan Rathnayake is another player to keep an eye on. He has shown promising form, having scored 121 runs in the third ODI—a personal best, followed by 40 runs off 22 balls in the last T20. His current form indicates he could easily surpass the betting line of 16.5 runs.
Team News and Predictions
Sri Lanka faces a change in their lineup, with fast bowler Pramod Madushan stepping in to replace Eshan Malinga due to injury. The anticipated playing XI includes:
- Pathum Nissanka
- Kamil Mishara
- Kusal Mendis (wk)
- Pavan Rathnayake
- Charith Asalanka
- Dasun Shanaka (c)
- Janith Liyange
- Dunith Wellalage
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Pramod Madushan
- Matheesha Pathirana
England’s squad may see some rotations. Leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed is likely to replace one of the seasoned bowlers, while Luke Wood hopes to make his return. Their expected XI features:
- Phil Salt
- Jos Buttler (wk)
- Jacob Bethell
- Tom Banton
- Harry Brook (c)
- Sam Curran
- Will Jacks
- Rehan Ahmed
- Liam Dawson
- Jofra Archer
- Luke Wood
Betting Insights
For those interested in betting, current odds for the match are as follows:
- Sri Lanka: 7-4
- England: 4-9
With its solid performances thus far, England remains the favorite to secure another victory in this decisive match of the T20 series.
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