The England-Sri Lanka ODI series kicks off Thursday in Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium, and England has dropped a bombshell with their team selection. After a 25-month hiatus, Jack Crowley earns a starting spot as opener alongside Ben Duckett.
This marks Crowley’s return since his duck against West Indies in December 2023. The 27-year-old has eight ODIs under his belt, boasting 199 runs at an average boosted by twin half-centuries—his highest being 58 not out. England coaches are betting on his potential to deliver in this high-stakes opener.
Joe Root anchors at three, with exciting talent Jacob Bethell at four and captain Harry Brook at five. Jos Buttler brings his explosive batting and glovework, supported by Will Jacks’ all-round skills. Sam Curran, in scintillating domestic form, rounds out the batting depth.
Jamie Overton leads the seam attack, but eyes will be on spinners Adil Rashid and Liam Dawson. The Premadasa track, known for assisting tweakers, sets the stage for a spin-heavy battle.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka handed ODI captaincy to Charith Asalanka, fresh off stepping down from T20Is post their 2026 World Cup exit plans.
Full England XI: Jack Crowley, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook (capt), Jos Buttler (keeper), Will Jacks, Sam Curran, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Adil Rashid.
Sri Lanka’s squad features Asalanka (c), Nissanka, Mishara, Mendis, Samarawickrama, Rathnayake, de Silva, Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Wellalage, Hasaranga, Vandersay, Theekshana, Milan Rathnayake, Fernando, Madushan, Malinga.
This series could redefine both teams’ white-ball fortunes—don’t miss the action.
